Top Zionist Billionaire GIVES UP On Israel

Cenk Uygur on Ronald Lauder’s Criticism of Israel

Cenk Uygur discusses billionaire Ronald Lauder’s interview with Haaretz. Lauder, a longtime major supporter of Israel and former president of the World Jewish Congress, says he has sold his Tel Aviv apartment, donated his home in Be’er Sheva, and has no intention of returning to Israel. He describes the country’s current direction as deeply troubling and its politics as intolerable.

Lauder criticizes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying Israel is increasingly resembling a “banana republic” and that Netanyahu is not respecting democratic rules. He also blames far-right ministers for worsening relations with neighboring countries, including Jordan, and warns that Israel’s actions are turning even friendly governments and populations against it.

Peace Negotiations and Netanyahu’s Leadership

Lauder recounts his role in back-channel negotiations with Syria and Lebanon. He says he helped develop a proposed agreement that included an Israeli withdrawal from the Golan Heights, but that Netanyahu ultimately declined to sign it.

Uygur presents Lauder’s account as evidence that Netanyahu was not genuinely pursuing peace. He connects it to his broader criticism of Israeli policy and challenges the common claim that Palestinians and Arab states alone have blocked peace agreements. These are Uygur’s interpretations of Lauder’s account, not independently established conclusions in the segment.

Lauder’s Relationship with Netanyahu

Uygur recounts Lauder’s past closeness to Netanyahu, including helping introduce him to influential Americans and hosting events for him. Uygur argues that these connections illustrate how wealthy supporters helped shape Netanyahu’s public standing. Lauder’s account also describes tensions over requests for gifts from Netanyahu’s wife, Sarah.

Uygur emphasizes that Lauder’s criticism does not mean he has become politically liberal: Lauder reportedly still favors right-wing Israeli politicians. Uygur argues that Lauder’s warnings deserve attention precisely because they come from a longtime, highly influential Zionist. He calls on Jewish leaders to distinguish Judaism from Zionism and urges the United States and other supporters to stop enabling Israel’s current course.

Presenter: Cenk Uygur