Independent MK Idan Roll Resigns from Knesset, Steps Away from Politics

Independent MK Idan Roll Resigns from Knesset, Marks End of Political Chapter

Jerusalem, October 1, 2023 — In a significant political shift, Independent Member of Knesset (MK) Idan Roll announced his resignation from the Knesset on Sunday, citing his decision not to run in the upcoming elections. Roll, who previously served as deputy foreign minister under Yair Lapid, expressed that stepping down at the beginning of the Knesset’s nearly three-month recess was the appropriate course of action.

The Knesset is set to reconvene on October 19 for its winter session, but Roll’s departure marks the end of a notable chapter in Israeli politics. In a heartfelt post on X, Roll reflected on his journey through five election cycles, a global pandemic, and a “bloody war,” emphasizing his commitment to advancing the rights of the LGBTQ community and promoting a liberal approach to human rights alongside national security.

“I pray that in the next elections, a broad Zionist government will arise in Israel, one that will wisely leverage the many and unprecedented achievements of the war and shape a better future for our children in a new Middle East,” Roll stated.

Yair Lapid, the leader of Yesh Atid, the party Roll was previously affiliated with, extended his best wishes for Roll’s future endeavors. Adi Ezuz, a former adviser to Lapid and a prominent disability rights activist, is set to take over Roll’s seat in the Knesset.

Roll’s resignation comes after a tumultuous period in Israeli politics. Earlier this year, he publicly criticized Lapid, asserting that the opposition leader viewed Knesset members as mere extensions of the party rather than individuals with their own status. Following his resignation from Yesh Atid, Roll is now legally barred from running for any party currently in the Knesset, a measure designed to prevent lawmakers from switching allegiances for personal gain.

While Roll had previously hinted at forming a new political faction called National Majority, his resignation post did not mention this plan, instead indicating a complete retirement from political life. First elected to the Knesset in 2019, Roll, an openly gay former model, has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights, leveraging his visibility as an activist to promote Israel’s image on the global stage.

As deputy foreign minister, Roll aimed to strengthen ties with the U.S. Democratic Party, particularly in light of increasing criticism regarding Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. His recent comments following the October 7 Hamas attack, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 hostages, reflect a shift in his stance, advocating against allowing the Palestinian Authority to take control of Gaza.

As the Knesset prepares for its upcoming session, Roll’s resignation leaves a notable void in Israeli politics, while also paving the way for new voices like Adi Ezuz to emerge.