WhatsApp Co-Founder Donates $200 Million to Jerusalem Hospital
WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum has given $200 million to Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem. The donation is the largest ever made to an Israeli hospital. Koum previously donated $6 million to the Elad organization.
jta.orgWhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum has donated $200 million to Shaare Zedek Medical Center, an independent hospital described as the largest in Jerusalem. The gift, announced on May 8, 2026, is the largest single donation ever made to Israel's healthcare system, according to Haaretz.
The funds will support the medical center's operations and development. Shaare Zedek Medical Center functions independently from government hospitals in the city. Hospital officials have not yet released specific details on how the full amount will be allocated.
Koum previously donated $6 million to the Elad organization.
That group promotes Jewish settlement in East Jerusalem's Silwan neighborhood. The earlier contribution was reported in connection with Koum's philanthropic activities. The latest donation comes as Israeli hospitals continue to manage demands on their services. No further statements about additional gifts or future plans were included in the report.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
2 events- May 8, 2026
Jan Koum donates $200 million to Shaare Zedek Medical Center.
1 sourceHaaretz - Prior to 2026
Koum donates $6 million to the Elad organization.
1 sourceHaaretz
Potential Impact
- 01
Shaare Zedek Medical Center will receive significant new funding for operations and development.
- 02
The donation sets a new record for single gifts to Israeli healthcare institutions.
- 03
Elad organization previously received $6 million from the same donor for its activities in Silwan.
Transparency Panel
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