New Deal for World Zionist Organization Leadership
A new agreement is being finalized to reshape the leadership at the World Zionist Organization (WZO) and the Jewish National Fund-KKL, featuring a rotation between Rabbi Doron Perez and current WZO chief Yaakov Hagoel.
Background of the Collapse
The previous arrangement collapsed dramatically after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s elder son, Yair Netanyahu, was unexpectedly offered a senior board position at the WZO.
This appointment crossed a red line for many and led the opposition Yesh Atid party to withdraw from the deal.
The fallout disrupted the compromise and threw the World Zionist Congress into turmoil.
Details of the New Agreement
- Yair Netanyahu will no longer hold any position within the WZO.
- The role he was nominated for—head of the WZO’s Diaspora and Information Department—includes an office, a car, and a salary similar to a government minister’s.
- The beneficiary of this position remains undetermined.
Implications
This updated leadership plan likely paves the way for Yaakov Hagoel's return as WZO head, avoiding politically sensitive appointments and restoring stability to Zionist institutions.
Author's summary: A new leadership deal excludes Yair Netanyahu from the WZO, signaling a return for Yaakov Hagoel and aiming to resolve recent political turmoil within Zionist institutions.