Yesh Atid Quits World Zionist Organization Citing Corruption and Cronyism
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, is withdrawing from the World Zionist Organization (WZO). He accused the 127-year-old quasi-governmental body of being engulfed in corruption and political patronage.
Lapid claimed that this corruption is alienating Jews in the Diaspora from Israel. He also declared plans to nationalize the Jewish National Fund (Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael, KKL-JNF), which owns more than 13% of Israeli land.
Impact on World Zionist Congress Negotiations
The decision disrupted ongoing coalition talks at the World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem, a global event held every five years. Delegates from Israel and major Diaspora Jewish groups had been negotiating a power-sharing agreement.
Under a draft deal, Yesh Atid lawmaker Meir Cohen was slated to chair the KKL-JNF, but the agreement fell apart after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s son, Yair Netanyahu, was reportedly offered a senior position within the WZO.
Lapid called this move "emblematic of nepotism and a system to arrange jobs for the Netanyahu family."
He emphasized that Yesh Atid would reject all positions and funding associated with the Zionist institutions.
Summary
Yair Lapid’s party left the World Zionist Organization, condemning corruption and nepotism, and announced intent to nationalize the Jewish National Fund to protect public interests.
Author’s Conclusion
This event highlights rising tensions over governance and transparency within key Israeli and Zionist institutions, reflecting broader challenges in balancing political influence and public trust.