Power Struggle Between Degel HaTorah and Agudas Yisroel: Inside the Rotation Dispute and Its Ramifications

Tensions are running high within the United Torah Judaism alliance as Degel HaTorah levels sharp accusations against its Agudas Yisroel partners, claiming a serious breach of internal coalition agreements. The dispute centers around the failure to implement a previously agreed-upon Knesset seat rotation.

Following the departure of the chareidi parties from ministerial and Knesset roles several weeks ago, Degel HaTorah has intensified its criticism of Agudah, particularly over what it views as a violation of a key agreement governing the division of seats between the two factions. According to Degel, now that the number of Knesset mandates stands at an odd number, as was anticipated in the agreement, MK Yisroel Eichler of Agudah should vacate his seat in favor of Degel HaTorah’s Yitzchok Pindrus.

Degel officials cite a written clause in the coalition deal that stipulates that a rotation must occur even if the Norwegian Law — which allows ministers to resign their Knesset seat temporarily — is no longer in effect. The agreement requires that once ministers and deputy ministers return to the Knesset, the seat rotation between the parties be implemented immediately.

A senior Degel HaTorah figure remarked: “I can’t understand how Agudas Yisroel is ignoring an agreement that clearly states that a rotation must take place. It’s a shame that they are disregarding our repeated appeals. In the coming days, we will consider our next steps — and there will be consequences.”

Yesterday, MK Uri Maklev visited the homes of leading gedolim to consult on the matter. Matzav.com has learned that Maklev, who chairs the Degel faction, is spearheading efforts to increase the party’s representation in the Knesset. During his consultations, he raised concerns about Agudah’s failure to honor its commitments.

Meanwhile, officials in Agudas Yisroel reject Degel’s interpretation of the agreement. They argue that the clause in question only applies in cases where a ministerial appointment occurs long after the Knesset’s term has begun — typically a year or more later. In such a case, two years after the Knesset term begins (but only one year after the minister-turned-MK returns under the Norwegian Law), the sides would be required to rotate.

Agudah further asserts that the current situation does not fall under the conditions described in the agreement. “The entire spirit of the agreement was to maintain equality between the factions,” an Agudah source said. “If seat number seven (Eichler) steps aside for seat number eight (Pindrus), who already served a full term, where is the equality in that?”

{Matzav.com Israel}