IAI Workers' Union Head Poised to Run for Histadrut Leadership
Yair Katz, the chairman of the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) workers' union, is reportedly preparing to run for the leadership of the Histadrut, Israel's labor federation, in the upcoming June elections. While Katz has previously expressed interest in the position, stating it "interests and challenges" him, he has also downplayed his intentions, saying he is "not dealing with it." However, sources within the economy and government suggest increasing indications of his readiness to compete for one of the most powerful and influential roles in the Israeli economy.
Katz recently demonstrated solidarity with Pinchas Idan, chairman of the Airports Authority workers' union, amidst media criticism of a denied strike by airport workers during peak travel season. Although Katz acknowledged the strike's disproportionate impact on the public, he defended the workers' struggle as "super, super legitimate," highlighting the difficult conditions faced by airport staff and blaming the Airports Authority management and Transportation Minister Miri Regev for delaying a resolution.
Katz, 46, married with three children, has led the IAI workers' union, representing approximately 15,000 employees, since 2018. He is the son of former IAI union chairman and current Minister Haim Katz. While his public support for Idan is seen by some as a move to build his base for the Histadrut race, he faces significant challenges despite his public profile.
Potential obstacles include the political influence of his father, Haim Katz, and the lingering shadow of Arnon Bar-David, the current Histadrut chairman. Bar-David faces an investigation related to the "Handshake" affair and has stated he would resign if indicted, leaving a potential power vacuum. Bar-David's endorsement could significantly boost any candidate he chooses to support. Furthermore, the upcoming Knesset elections could see senior political figures seeking the Histadrut chairmanship as a consolation prize if they lose their parliamentary bids.
