Centrist Israeli Party Withdraws from World Zionist Organization
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, is pulling out of the World Zionist Organization (WZO). He accused the 127-year-old quasi-governmental body of corruption and political cronyism, which he claims alienates Diaspora Jews from Israel.
Criticism of National Institutions
Lapid emphasized that Israel’s “national institutions” have prioritized political interests over the public good. Addressing this issue, he declared his intention to nationalize the Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael—the Jewish National Fund—which owns more than 13% of Israel’s land.
Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid stated at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Tel Aviv on April 24, 2023.
Impact on World Zionist Congress
This announcement disrupted ongoing coalition negotiations at the World Zionist Congress, a global meeting held every five years in Jerusalem. Delegates from Israel and leading Diaspora Jewish groups were working on a power-sharing agreement among political parties and international Jewish organizations.
Context of the Withdrawal
- The World Zionist Organization is a historical institution, active for over 127 years.
- Yesh Atid’s departure signals discontent with the current management of Zionist affairs.
- Lapid associates the corruption with decreasing engagement from Jews living outside Israel.
Conclusion
This development highlights increasing tensions within Israeli and Diaspora Jewish leadership regarding transparency and governance in Zionist institutions.
Author's summary: Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party quits the World Zionist Organization, condemning entrenched corruption and seeking to nationalize key land-holding institutions to restore public trust.