Centrist Israeli party quits World Zionist Organization, citing corruption and political cronyism

Centrist Israeli Party Quits World Zionist Organization, Citing Corruption and Cronyism

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid announced that his centrist party, Yesh Atid, will withdraw from the World Zionist Organization (WZO). The decision follows his accusations that the 127-year-old institution is deeply entangled in corruption and political cronyism.

“Corruption is driving Diaspora Jews away from Israel,” said Lapid.

Lapid added that he plans to advocate for the nationalization of Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund (JNF), which currently manages more than 13% of Israel’s land. He argued that the JNF and similar national institutions should serve the public good rather than narrow political interests.

The announcement disrupted weeks of intricate coalition negotiations at the World Zionist Congress in Jerusalem, a major international assembly convened every five years to coordinate between Israeli political factions and global Jewish organizations.

Background

Lapid, who formerly served as Prime Minister, made the remarks during his address at the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly in Tel Aviv on April 24, 2023.

Implications

Signals growing tensions within Israel’s centrist and Zionist institutions.
Undermines ongoing international and political partnerships within the WZO.
Raises renewed calls for transparency and reform in Israel’s public land management.

By Asaf Elia-Shalev | November 5, 2025 | JTA

Author’s Summary: Lapid’s withdrawal from the WZO underscores his fight against corruption and his push to realign Israel’s public institutions with transparent, civic priorities.

The Forward — 2025-11-05

Centrist Israeli Party Quits World Zionist Organization, Citing Corruption and Cronyism

Background

Implications

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