Yair Lapid: The Israeli Politician and Journalist Making a Major Impact
When it comes to Israeli politics, there is one name that stands out: Yair Lapid. A politician, writer, and journalist, Lapid is one of the most influential people in Israel, holding the second most powerful position as Finance Minister in the Israeli government. With over 40 years of experience as an journalist, a successful leader in the Yesh Atid party, and a major role in the Israeli peace process, Lapid is leaving a major impact on the Israeli political and social atmosphere.
Early Years and Education
Yair Lapid was born in Tel Aviv, Israel, in 1963. His father, Yosef Lapid, was a popular news anchor and eventually the Minister of Justice and Internal Security for Israel. He attended Tel Aviv University, where he studied philosophy and three separate languages– Hebrew, French, and English.
Stepping Into the World of Journalism
As a student and aspiring journalist, Lapid worked as an unpaid intern at a small television station in Tel-Aviv as a journalist and host. In 1978, at the young age of 15, he was appointed as the youngest ever news anchor. After launching a successful tenure at the station, Lapid moved his focus to print media and began writing for the Maariv newspaper in 1982. His articles and columns were praised for their thought-provoking and unique perspective, and Lapid quickly built a strong following.
Joining the Political Arena
In 2012, Lapid announced his intention to enter politics, founding the Yesh Atid party, which translates to “There is a Future.” This centrist party aimed to bring a more modernistic approach to the Israeli political climate and focus on moral values, economic progress, and social issues. In the 2013 election, Lapid was elected and appointed Minister of Finance. He served to reduce the cost of living, reduce corporate taxes, and worked to pass a law against draft-dodging. After his party won 19 seats, Lapid resigned in 2014.
Lapid’s Role in the Israeli Peace Process
One of the most impressive feats of Lapid’s political career is his involvement in the Israeli peace process, even despite his party’s positions not always conforming with the prime minister’s vision. In 2013, Lapid singularly opposed the settlement freeze, showing his party’s commitment to both having a peace process and allowing for settlements. He was vocal about his motives to create economic opportunity for Palestine and a peaceful relationship between the states of Israel and Palestine. Lapid was also a key proponent of forming a Negotiations Support Team, allowing for the peace process to continue even as leaders changed.
A New Chapter: Ongoing Legacy and Involvement
Yair Lapid is currently still involved in the political atmosphere. In 2019, the Blue and White party was formed, and the party won 33 seats in the Knesset, or the Israeli parliament. Lapid was the party’s leader, with fellow Blue and White member Benny Gantz being chosen as the 11th Prime Minister of Israel in 2019.
Throughout his career, Yair Lapid has left a major mark on Israeli politics, modernizing the parties and creating a fairer, more inclusive society in the face of major political upheaval. He continues to be a voice in the political arena and fight for the well-being of Israel and those residing directly in Palestine. Lapid may have left his post as Finance Minister, but his presence and influence remain just as strong.
Yair Lapid is an iconic figure in the Israeli political spectrum. A journalist, politician, and leader of the Yesh Atid party, Lapid has made major contributions to the future of Israel and of the Israeli-Palestine peace process. He has taken a modern stance on Israeli politics, fighting for a fairer and more inclusive society, and continues to be a powerful force in Israeli politics with the rise of the Blue and White party. His legacy lives on in Israeli politics, and he will continue to work towards a brighter future for the region.
