Histadrut Chairman Moves to Oust Senior Official After Recorded Criticism

Following a Channel 13 report exposing aggressive behavior by Histadrut Chairman Arnon Bar-David, including harsh remarks against Alexandra Krushinsky, head of the Academic Workers Union (Mah'ar) under the Histadrut, Bar-David announced on Thursday his decision to remove her from her position. In a letter to Giora Nahum, chairman of the Histadrut's Coordination and Execution Committee, Bar-David accused Krushinsky of disobedience, pursuing personal power interests over worker representation, and violating her duties as union head.

Bar-David had been barred from entering his office for months by court order amid a criminal investigation into senior Histadrut officials in the "Yad Lohechet Yad" affair. The recordings revealed by Channel 13 show Bar-David's forceful conduct since his return, including calling Krushinsky "the dumbest of all." The Histadrut responded to the recordings by denying any connection between disputes with Mah'ar leadership and insurance matters, stating that a committee was formed two years ago to examine Mah'ar's future. They criticized Krushinsky for raising unfounded personal claims instead of addressing professional issues.

This development highlights ongoing internal conflicts within the Histadrut leadership amid legal scrutiny and organizational challenges. The next steps will likely involve formal proceedings regarding Krushinsky's removal and further responses from Mah'ar and the Histadrut.