Moshe Gafni Admits Joining Netanyahu Coalition Was a Mistake, Criticizes Government on Cost of Living Crisis

Moshe Gafni, former chairman of the Knesset Finance Committee and leader of the Degel HaTorah party, sharply criticized the Israeli government's handling of the cost of living crisis, calling it a longstanding failure. Speaking to Maariv, Gafni said the government has completely failed to address the economic hardships affecting citizens, and lamented that Prime Minister Netanyahu and Finance Minister Avigdor Lieberman neglected to take decisive action despite having the means to do so. Gafni stepped down from his Finance Committee chairmanship a year ago, handing over to Hanoch Milwitsky, but remains vocal about his frustrations with the coalition's performance.

He specifically condemned the government's delays and poor management of key issues like the draft law and enforcement against draft evaders, which led to the Supreme Court's intervention. Gafni also expressed anger at the Finance Ministry and Tax Authority for efforts to block donations to yeshivas under exemption rules, and threatened to withhold support for legislation weakening the Attorney General if funding for ultra-Orthodox kindergarten teachers was not approved.

Reflecting on his political decisions, Gafni admitted that joining Netanyahu's coalition was a mistake and that the coalition's conduct since then has been "terrible." He resigned from the Finance Committee on rabbinical instruction and does not regret it, stating it was the right choice. Gafni blamed internal political battles and public attacks on the ultra-Orthodox sector for sidelining important legislation, and criticized Netanyahu for avoiding responsibility on these issues.

Gafni's comments come amid ongoing tensions within the coalition and debates over budget allocations and legal reforms affecting the ultra-Orthodox community. His outspoken stance highlights deep dissatisfaction within parts of the coalition regarding government priorities and crisis management.