Yesh Atid Withdraws from World Zionist Organization
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, is leaving the World Zionist Organization (WZO), accusing the 127-year-old institution of corruption and political favoritism.
Lapid criticized Israel’s "national institutions" for prioritizing political interests over the public good, which he believes is driving Jews in the Diaspora away from Israel.
Calls to Nationalize the Jewish National Fund
He also declared plans to nationalize Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF), which owns over 13% of Israel’s land.
Impact on World Zionist Congress and Coalition Talks
The move disrupted sensitive coalition negotiations at the World Zionist Congress, a global assembly in Jerusalem that meets every five years. Delegates had been discussing power-sharing agreements among Israeli political parties and major Diaspora Jewish groups.
- Yesh Atid lawmaker Meir Cohen was set to chair KKL-JNF under a draft agreement.
- These plans fell apart after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s son, Yair Netanyahu, was reportedly offered a senior role at the WZO.
"A system to arrange jobs for the Netanyahu family," Lapid said, condemning what he sees as nepotism.
Consequently, Lapid announced that Yesh Atid would reject any positions or funding connected to Zionist institutions.
Author's Summary
Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party exits the World Zionist Organization amid accusations of corruption and nepotism, aiming to nationalize KKL-JNF to restore trust among Diaspora Jews.