Lauder Calls for Creation of $1 Billion Global News Network Backed by Israel and Diaspora Jews

Jun 1, 2026 by The Jewish Voice And Opinion Staff

NEW YORK, NY (June 1, 2026) – Speaking at The Jerusalem Post 2026 New York Conference, Ronald S. Lauder, President of the World Jewish Congress (WJC), called for the establishment of a new global news and public relations operation backed by a $1 billion budget and supported jointly by Israel and Jewish communities around the world.

Lauder proposed that the initiative operate independently, in a dedicated facility, and function around the clock.

“It should be in a separate building, and it should have a billion-dollar budget,” Lauder said. “it should be on day and night.”

The World Jewish Congress president emphasized that funding for the effort should come not only from Israel, but also from Jewish communities worldwide.

“Some of that billion dollars should come from Jews in the Diaspora,” Lauder said. “Diaspora Jews should partner with Israelis in this PR fight because in the end, it won’t just be protecting the Jewish state – it will be protecting the Jewish people worldwide.”

Ronald Lauder – Photo Credit: Marc Israel Sellem

Lauder argued that Israel’s response to misinformation and false narratives must become significantly more aggressive and coordinated.

“Israel’s counterattack should be relentless as well,” he said.

Questioning the current structure of Israel’s communications efforts, Lauder asked the audience: “Who is in charge of Israel’s PR? Can anyone tell me? The answer is really no one.”

Lauder’s proposal represents a call for a major new investment in Israel’s global communications capabilities and a new partnership between Israel and Jewish communities worldwide to strengthen the country’s voice on the international stage.