KKL Workers' Committee Gains Power Through Secret Housing and Political Pressure in Israel

In a revealing investigation, it was uncovered that the Jewish National Fund (KKL) operates a secret housing pool in central Tel Aviv, providing subsidized apartments primarily to insiders connected to the organization. The origin traces back to 1971 when Nahmiah Halpern donated a building on Zamenhof Street to the state, which was registered under KKL ownership. Over time, this building and many others have become part of a covert system where apartments are allocated through informal networks favoring those with the right connections, often excluding the general public and even many KKL employees.

Israel Goldstein, chairman of KKL's workers' committee, wields significant influence by combining generous employee benefits with strict discipline. His leadership style is described as harsh and intimidating, particularly towards those challenging his authority. Attempts by KKL management to engage with employees have been met with hostility from the committee, illustrating the committee's dominant position. Goldstein also exerts political power by mobilizing around 600 KKL employees and their families to join and vote in Likud primaries, often under intense pressure, including personal calls and threats of losing job opportunities.

The workers' committee controls a substantial welfare budget of approximately 7 million shekels annually, funding subsidized vacations, events, and bonuses, which contributes to employee loyalty despite the oppressive atmosphere. KKL's workforce has grown by 32% in five years, with many new hires linked to political and organizational elites, including family members of prominent politicians and union leaders. This network extends to housing benefits, as Goldstein's own wife rents a subsidized apartment at below-market rates in the donated Tel Aviv building.

KKL's management has initiated a thorough internal review following the exposé, promising stricter oversight and disciplinary actions where necessary. The Histadrut union and KKL workers' committee have both denied wrongdoing, asserting that all procedures were followed and that employment decisions are independent of political connections. The investigation highlights a complex system where loyalty to the committee chairman and political alignment often outweigh merit, with public assets effectively privatized for a select few.