Yesh Atid Quits World Zionist Organization Over Corruption Claims
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, is withdrawing from the World Zionist Organization (WZO), accusing the 127-year-old institution of corruption and political cronyism. Lapid criticized Israel’s “national institutions” for prioritizing political interests over the public good.
Accusations of Corruption and Patronage
Lapid argued that corruption within the WZO is driving Diaspora Jews away from Israel. He pledged to push for the nationalization of Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL), also known as the Jewish National Fund (JNF), which controls more than 13% of Israel’s land.
Impact on World Zionist Congress Negotiations
This announcement disrupted sensitive coalition talks at the World Zionist Congress, a global event held every five years in Jerusalem. Delegates were negotiating a power-sharing deal involving Israeli political parties and major Diaspora Jewish groups.
- Yesh Atid lawmaker Meir Cohen was expected to lead the KKL-JNF under a draft agreement.
- The plan collapsed after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s son, Yair Netanyahu, was reportedly offered a senior role at the WZO.
“A system to arrange jobs for the Netanyahu family.”
Lapid condemned the appointment offer as nepotism and stated that his party would reject all positions and funding connected to the Zionist institutions.
Author's Summary
Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party left the World Zionist Organization, denouncing corruption and nepotism, and vowed to nationalize the Jewish National Fund to restore trust and transparency.