Yesh Atid Withdraws from World Zionist Organization Over Corruption Allegations
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist Yesh Atid party is pulling out of the World Zionist Organization (WZO), condemning the 127-year-old institution for corruption and political cronyism. He accused Israel’s “national institutions” of prioritizing political interests above the public good, which he believes alienates Jews in the Diaspora.
Criticism of Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – Jewish National Fund
Lapid declared his intention to nationalize Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), an organization that manages more than 13% of Israel’s land. This statement came amid concerns that corruption is eroding trust in Zionist institutions.
Impact on World Zionist Congress and Coalition Talks
The announcement disrupted delicate coalition negotiations at the World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem, a global event held every five years. Delegates from Israel and Jewish communities worldwide had been negotiating power-sharing arrangements between Israeli political parties and major Diaspora groups.
Controversy Over Leadership and Alleged Nepotism
According to reports, Yesh Atid lawmaker Meir Cohen was slated to lead the KKL-JNF under a draft agreement. However, plans fell apart after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s son, Yair Netanyahu, was reportedly offered a senior role in the WZO. Lapid sharply criticized this as nepotism, calling it “a system to arrange jobs for the Netanyahu family.”
Yair Lapid stated, “Corruption was pushing Diaspora Jews away from Israel.”
He also said, “a system to arrange jobs for the Netanyahu family” exemplifies the current nepotism.
Lapid emphasized that his party would reject all positions and funding associated with these Zionist institutions.
Author’s Summary
Yesh Atid exits the World Zionist Organization, condemning corruption, nepotism, and political cronyism, and calls for nationalizing the Jewish National Fund to restore trust among Diaspora Jews.