Centrist Israeli Party Withdraws from World Zionist Organization
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist Yesh Atid party is leaving the World Zionist Organization, citing corruption and political cronyism within the 127-year-old quasi-governmental body.
Accusations Against National Institutions
Lapid accused Israel’s “national institutions” of prioritizing political interests over the public good, which he believes is alienating Jews in the Diaspora. He emphasized the need for reform to restore trust and transparency.
Plans to Nationalize the Jewish National Fund
He pledged to push for the nationalization of Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund, which manages over 13% of Israel’s land, aiming to bring it under direct state control to prevent misuse.
“Corruption was pushing Diaspora Jews away from Israel,” Lapid declared.
Impact on World Zionist Congress Negotiations
The announcement disrupted ongoing coalition talks at the World Zionist Congress, a global gathering held every five years in Jerusalem. Delegates from Israel and major Diaspora Jewish communities had been working on a power-sharing agreement.
Context and Source
The statement was made during a period of delicate negotiations, highlighting tensions between Israeli political parties and Jewish groups abroad. The information was reported by Asaf Elia-Shalev on November 5, 2025, courtesy of JTA and JFNA/Amnon Gutman.
“Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid speaks at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Tel Aviv on April 24, 2023.”
Summary
Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party quit the World Zionist Organization, condemning corruption and political favoritism, and seeks national control over the Jewish National Fund’s significant land holdings.
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