Centrist Israeli Party Leaves World Zionist Organization Over Corruption Allegations
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has announced that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, is quitting the World Zionist Organization (WZO). He accused the 127-year-old quasi-governmental body of corruption and political cronyism that undermine its mission.
Lapid criticized Israel’s “national institutions” for prioritizing political interests over the public good, warning that such corruption drives Diaspora Jews away from Israel. He also declared his intention to nationalize the Jewish National Fund (Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael), which controls more than 13% of Israel’s land.
Impact on World Zionist Congress
This decision disrupted ongoing coalition negotiations at the World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem, a global assembly that meets every five years. Delegates from Israel and Jewish communities worldwide had been discussing power-sharing agreements between Israel’s political factions and major Diaspora Jewish groups.
Context and Significance
Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid spoke at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Tel Aviv on April 24, 2023.
The withdrawal marks an unprecedented challenge to the WZO’s leadership and raises questions about governance within key Zionist institutions.
Summary
Yair Lapid’s party exit from the World Zionist Organization highlights deep concerns over corruption and political favoritism, signaling a push for reform and greater accountability within Zionist institutions.