Yesh Atid Quits World Zionist Organization Citing Corruption
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid declared on Wednesday that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, is withdrawing from the World Zionist Organization (WZO). He accused the 127-year-old quasi-governmental body of corruption and political cronyism.
Accusations Against National Institutions
Lapid criticized Israel’s “national institutions” for prioritizing political agendas over the public interest, claiming this corruption alienates Diaspora Jews from Israel.
Push to Nationalize Jewish National Fund
He also announced plans to nationalize the Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), which controls more than 13% of Israeli land.
Effect on World Zionist Congress
The announcement disrupted delicate coalition talks at the World Zionist Congress, a global event held every five years in Jerusalem. Delegates from Israel and the Diaspora had been negotiating a power-sharing agreement between Israeli political parties and major Diaspora Jewish organizations.
Breakdown of Leadership Deal
Under a draft agreement, Yesh Atid lawmaker Meir Cohen was expected to lead the KKL-JNF. However, those plans collapsed after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s son, Yair Netanyahu, was reportedly offered a senior position at the WZO.
“A system to arrange jobs for the Netanyahu family.”
Lapid condemned the offer as a clear example of nepotism, declaring his party would reject all roles and funding connected to Zionist institutions.
Summary
Yair Lapid’s withdrawal of Yesh Atid from the WZO highlights ongoing concerns about corruption and nepotism within Israel’s national institutions, prompting calls for reform and greater accountability.
Author's Note
The move by Yesh Atid underscores deep fractures in Israel’s political and Diaspora relations, driven by allegations of misuse of power and calls for institutional reforms.