The Austrian Jewish community has declared World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder an “unwelcome person” for allegedly interfering in their affairs, according to a report in Haaretz.
Oskar Deutsch, the community president, reportedly accused the Jewish billionaire and former US envoy to Austria, of offering the community leadership “more than €4.5million” to back candidate Martin Engelberg in their board elections.
Mr Lauder has strongly denied allegations, calling them “unfounded and irresponsible”.
Gary Lewi, a spokesperson for Mr Lauder, told the JTA: “Let there be no mistake: These allegations are despicable and without any basis in truth.
