Top Rabbi Denies Operatives Behind Knesset Member Switch

Rabbi Dov Lando, a leading Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox rabbi, released an unusual video statement Tuesday addressing the recent upheaval within the Degel HaTorah party. The controversy involved the removal of veteran Knesset members Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev from their positions, with Yaakov Asher now heading the list.

In the video, recorded at his home, Rabbi Lando directly refuted claims that party operatives were responsible for the decision. "It is a complete lie," he stated emphatically, responding to widespread public criticism and reports suggesting that activists were behind the changes. "I alone decided."

Rabbi Lando explained that he felt compelled to break his usual silence and address the matter publicly due to the persistent rumors. He expressed frustration with the false narratives, stating, "Excuse me for speaking loudly, because one responds to a lie loudly!" The rabbi's intervention aims to clarify that the reshuffling of Degel HaTorah's Knesset list was solely his decision, countering allegations that others influenced or orchestrated the move.