Centrist Israeli Party Quits World Zionist Organization, Citing Corruption
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced on November 5, 2025, that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, is withdrawing from the World Zionist Organization. He accused this 127-year-old quasi-governmental institution of corruption and political cronyism, claiming it prioritizes political interests over the public good.
Accusations and Implications
Lapid stated that corruption within Israel’s national institutions is driving Diaspora Jews away from Israel. He vowed to push for the nationalization of the Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (JNF), which manages over 13% of Israel's land.
Disruption at World Zionist Congress
This decision disrupted ongoing coalition talks at the World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem, a global forum held every five years. Delegates from Israel and major Diaspora Jewish communities had been negotiating a power-sharing agreement between Israel’s political parties and Diaspora groups.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid speaks at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Tel Aviv on April 24, 2023.
These developments highlight rising tensions regarding governance and accountability within longstanding Jewish institutions.
Summary
Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party withdrew from the World Zionist Organization, condemning corruption and political favoritism, while seeking to bring major land resources under national control.
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