According to a report by The Times Of Israel on Friday October 23, 2026, Ronald Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress and a longtime confidant of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has urged Israelis not to reelect the premier, warning that his continued leadership could damage the country.
In an interview with Haaretz, the billionaire philanthropist criticised the current state of Israeli democracy, saying he had remained silent about the situation for decades but now felt compelled to speak out.
“I’ve been silent for 20 years, 30 years,” Lauder said. “One of the things that made Israel so special compared to other countries is that they had a real democracy. What we’re seeing now feels more like a banana republic.”
Lauder also warned of the potential consequences if Netanyahu secures another term as prime minister, expressing concern about Israel’s political direction and future.
“If Bibi is elected, Israel stands to lose badly,” he said.
Asked about his preferred candidate in the upcoming election, Lauder said he would not vote because of his dissatisfaction with the political system. However, he identified Yashar leader Gadi Eisenkot as his choice if he were required to cast a ballot.
The World Jewish Congress president also criticised the prospect of far-right political parties retaining influence in a future Israeli government.
“If Ben Gvir and Smotrich’s parties play any role in government in the future, Israel is doomed,” he said.
Lauder was referring to Itamar Ben Gvir, who serves as national security minister, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, both leaders of far-right parties in Israel.
His remarks represent a notable criticism from someone who previously maintained a close relationship with Netanyahu.
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