Ronald Lauder, the American billionaire and head of the World Jewish Congress, has publicly expressed his disillusionment with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a recent interview with Haaretz, Lauder accused Netanyahu of prioritizing his political career over peace agreements. Lauder, a longstanding supporter of Israel, claimed that Netanyahu abandoned a negotiated peace agreement with Syria and Lebanon in the late 1990s despite having approved its terms.
Lauder described his role as Netanyahu's intermediary in secret negotiations with Syrian President Hafez al-Assad and Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in the 1990s. He said Netanyahu authorized him to explore a peace agreement, on condition that he report every detail. Over 10 to 15 months, Lauder traveled repeatedly between Israel and Syria, sometimes visiting Lebanon, and developed a 10-point agreement. Lauder claimed that Assad was ready to sign it, but Netanyahu decided not to.
Lauder strongly criticized Netanyahu's empowerment of far-right ministers, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. He accused Netanyahu of allowing them to damage Israel's future, pointing to hostility towards Palestinians and deteriorating relations with Jordan. Lauder warned that if Ben Gvir and Smotrich's parties play any role in government in the future, Israel is doomed.
Lauder's estrangement from Netanyahu has led him to dispose of his remaining Israeli properties, selling his Tel Aviv apartment and donating his home in Beersheba to the Jewish National Fund. He stated that he has no intention of returning to Israel. Despite this, Lauder insisted that he remains committed to the country and still loves Israel.
Lauder's criticism of Netanyahu extends to his approach to democracy. He argued that Netanyahu's approach has weakened Israel's democratic character, describing it as a "one-person show." Lauder warned that the consequences extend beyond Israel, with Jewish communities abroad increasingly questioning whether the country protects their interests.
The current Israeli election has resulted in a political deadlock, with Netanyahu's bloc projected to win 53 seats, against 48 for Yashar party leader Gadi Eisenkot's camp and 19 for parties representing Palestinian citizens of Israel. Lauder's comments come at a time when Netanyahu's political future remains uncertain, and coalition talks may lead to a unity government or another election.
Despite his pessimism, Lauder believes that regional diplomacy remains possible. He suggested that an agreement could be reached with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, whom he described as intelligent and determined to rebuild Syria. Lauder's statements reflect his commitment to Israel, even as he criticizes Netanyahu's leadership and policies.
Key points
- Lauder accuses Netanyahu of abandoning a peace agreement with Syria and Lebanon.
- Lauder criticizes Netanyahu's empowerment of far-right ministers.
- Lauder warns that Israel's democratic character is weakened under Netanyahu's leadership.
