Centrist Israeli Party Quits World Zionist Organization Citing Corruption
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, will withdraw from the World Zionist Organization (WZO). He accused the 127-year-old quasi-governmental body of corruption and political cronyism, stating that these issues alienate Diaspora Jews from Israel.
Call for Nationalization of Jewish National Fund
Lapid pledged to push for the nationalization of Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael – Jewish National Fund (JNF), which controls over 13% of Israel’s land. He criticized Israel’s national institutions for prioritizing political interests over the public good.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid said the institutions "serve political interests over the public good."
Impact on World Zionist Congress Deliberations
This announcement disrupted ongoing coalition talks at the World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem, a global meeting held every five years. Delegates from Israel and major Diaspora Jewish groups had been negotiating a power-sharing agreement before the withdrawal.
Context and Source
The event was reported by Asaf Elia-Shalev on November 5, 2025, with additional coverage at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly held in Tel Aviv in April 2023.
“Corruption was pushing Diaspora Jews away from Israel,” said Lapid regarding the institutional issues.
Summary
Yair Lapid’s party’s exit from the WZO highlights concerns over institutional corruption and political favoritism, threatening unity between Israeli and Diaspora Jewish communities.
Author's summary: Yair Lapid’s Yesh Atid party left the World Zionist Organization, denouncing corruption and political patronage, and aims to nationalize the Jewish National Fund to protect Israeli interests.