Zionist Federation director Alan Aziz has announced that he is leaving to become the CEO of JNF.

Mr Aziz, who worked for the ZF for 15 years, said he had “decided to move from one iconic Zionist institution to another”.

He added: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege, even at the toughest of times, to defend and promote Israel in the UK.

“I truly believe that the ZF, which traces its history back to 1899 and was involved with the Balfour Declaration, is now more necessary than ever.”

Mr Aziz said ti was “a huge honour to be taking on the leading role in the JNF, which does incredible work to develop the south of Israel.

“With its programmes promoting environmental development, funding scientific research, and improving social mobility, they represent another opportunity for the British Jewish community to develop their relationship with Israel.”

During his time at the ZF, Mr Aziz introduced the annual Lobby Day, Science Week, and Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration, which have become staples of the pro-Israel calendar.

ZF chairman Paul Charney said: "On behalf of the entire ZF family, I wish Alan every success for the future. Alan has been a successful and formidable CEO for the ZF for many years and will be sorely missed.

“He leaves the ZF at its strongest. We will ensure the ZF continues to grow from strength to strength with a new dynamic CEO to replace Alan from within the pro-Israel community.

“We will ensure the continuity and growth of the ZF at a time when Israel crucially needs it more than ever."