Centrist Israeli Party Withdraws from World Zionist Organization
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced on November 5, 2025, that his centrist Yesh Atid party is leaving the World Zionist Organization (WZO). He accused the 127-year-old quasi-governmental institution of corruption and political cronyism, claiming it prioritizes political interests over the public good.
Accusations Against National Institutions
Lapid criticized Israel’s “national institutions,” arguing they have become entangled in political patronage that alienates Diaspora Jews from the country. He pledged to advocate for the nationalization of the Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (JNF), which manages more than 13% of Israel’s land.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid spoke at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Tel Aviv on April 24, 2023.
Impact on World Zionist Congress
This decision disrupted ongoing coalition talks at the World Zionist Congress, a global summit held every five years in Jerusalem, where representatives from Israeli political parties and major Jewish Diaspora groups negotiate power-sharing arrangements.
The move signals growing tensions over governance and control within Israel’s historic national frameworks.
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