Top Rabbi Explains Controversial Knesset Member Swap

Rabbi Dov Landau, a leading Lithuanian ultra-Orthodox rabbi, has released an unusual video statement addressing the recent removal of two veteran Knesset members, Moshe Gafni and Uri Maklev, from their positions within the Degel HaTorah party.

In the video, Rabbi Landau clarifies that he personally made the decision to replace the lawmakers, specifically mentioning the move of Moshe Gafni from the top of the list and his replacement by Yaakov Asher. This explanation comes in response to widespread public criticism and speculation that party operatives, rather than the spiritual leadership, were behind the changes.

Rabbi Landau, who typically avoids public pronouncements on such matters, stated, "I alone decided." He felt compelled to break his usual silence to directly address the public and refute claims that others were responsible for the decision. The controversy erupted following the ousting of Gafni and Maklev, prompting significant debate within the ultra-Orthodox community and beyond.

The article also briefly mentions an inquiry made to Tibi regarding the removal of Gafni and Maklev, though his response is not detailed.