Gafni, Maklev to leave Knesset as ultra-Orthodox Degel HaTorah party refreshes lineup

MK Moshe Gafni and Rabbi Uri Maklev are departing the Knesset from the ultra-Orthodox Degel HaTorah party, a faction of United Torah Judaism. Rabbi Dov Lando, the party's spiritual leader, announced their departure, citing the need to "refresh" the party's Knesset presence, though he requested Gafni remain chairman. Gafni and Maklev were instrumental in advocating for the Basic Law: Torah Study bill, which passed its final reading in July. Lando had previously authorized party members to work towards dissolving the Knesset over the haredi conscription bill, stating, "We no longer have trust in [Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu."