In a major shakeup first reported by eJewishPhilanthropy, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) CEO Steven Weil and board chair Morey Levovitz have both resigned, according to sources inside the organization. The resignations—neither publicly announced by FIDF—come just three weeks after a leaked internal report exposed allegations of financial mismanagement, a toxic work environment, and claims that Levovitz had been acting as the “de facto CEO.” Additional accusations soon emerged, including misleading fundraising practices and mishandled sexual harassment cases. Under pressure, the FIDF board prepared to vote on removing Levovitz, but reached an agreement for his voluntary resignation instead. Retired IDF Maj. Gen. Nadav Padan, currently serving as FIDF’s national director, has been appointed interim CEO, while former board chair Nily Falic will serve again in that role until September elections.
As one senior FIDF official bluntly told Ynet, “An era has ended. The question now is whether it will be enough to save the organization.”
For the sake of every IDF soldier who relies on genuine support and every donor who gives in good faith, I sincerely hope that the marketing department at Friends of the IDF undergoes meaningful reform. An organization of this stature must be held to the highest standards of integrity, and that begins with a strict and unwavering adherence to the truth. FIDF is uniquely positioned to assist in critical areas that arise after combat, including PTSD treatment, bereavement care, and long-term financial support for veterans and their families. These are essential and noble missions that deserve focus and resources. However, it is equally essential that FIDF never discourage others from supporting urgent needs that fall outside its formal scope, such as lifesaving equipment or battlefield necessities. No donor should be misled, and no soldier should be left unprotected because of a public relations strategy. The path forward requires humility, accountability, and a renewed commitment to honesty in every word spoken and dollar raised.
More information will be added as it becomes available
Full statement from FIDF:
We are writing to share important news regarding organizational decisions made by Friends of the Israel Defense Forces Board of Directors, as part of our continued commitment to strengthen our governance, culture, and morale to best serve the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces.
FIDF’s Chairman Morey Levovitz has made the difficult and noble decision to resign effective immediately, out of deep respect for the mission of FIDF and to help usher in a new chapter for the organization. We are sincerely grateful to Morey for his visionary leadership, especially during one of the most critical periods in Israel’s history. CEO Steve Weil has also resigned from FIDF after holding the position for five years, during which the organization experienced remarkable growth and delivered unprecedented impact for Israel’s soldiers and their families. We thank him for his dedicated service and leadership.
The Board has unanimously appointed Chair Emeritus Nily Falic, one of the great Jewish communal leaders of our time, as Interim National Chairperson until the Board goes through a formal process of nominating officers for an election in September. In addition, Major General (Res.) Nadav Padan, who has served FIDF as National Director for the past four years, has been appointed to lead day-to-day operations of the organization across all departments. The Board is expected to vote on whether to appoint Padan as CEO at an upcoming meeting.
The decisions made by the Board included accepting findings and recommendations made by an investigative committee that was recently formed to investigate organizational governance, culture and morale at the organization. Although the investigation identified certain issues related to organizational culture and staff morale, it found no fraud, misappropriation of funds, theft or kick-backs by or to Levovitz or any other employee, National Board Member or lay leader of FIDF.
Looking ahead, we remain unwavering in our mission—and more determined than ever to provide the brave men and women of the IDF with the critical support they need. We are fully committed to building a culture of transparency, collaboration, and unity within our organization because when FIDF is strong internally, we are strongest for Israel’s soldiers.
Thank you for your trust, your generosity, and your shared commitment to the well-being of Israel’s defenders. We look forward to building this next chapter together.
Out of respect for all parties, we will not be answering questions at this time.
With gratitude,
Friends of the Israel Defense Forces