On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump announced the United States’ withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council, a move that has further strained relations with the international body. Along with the withdrawal, Trump also confirmed the suspension of US aid to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, which provides support to Palestinian refugees across the Middle East.
This decision follows Israel’s accusations against UNRWA, claiming the organization sheltered several militants involved in the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas in southern Israel. However, UNRWA has denied these allegations. Israel has long criticized both the Human Rights Council and UNRWA, accusing them of biased actions against Israel and fostering anti-Semitism.
The United States had already withdrawn from the Geneva-based Human Rights Council under the previous administration. Additionally, US funding for UNRWA was cut off after these allegations surfaced.
Trump made this announcement following a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who was visiting the United States at the time. Netanyahu has repeatedly criticized both the Human Rights Council and UNRWA, calling them out for anti-Israel sentiment.
In his remarks to the press, Trump explained that while he has always seen potential in the United Nations, he believes it is currently failing to meet expectations. “There are certain countries that have been ‘outsiders,’ very bad, and often they get priority,” Trump said, though he did not specify which countries he was referring to.
Trump’s move marks a continuation of his administration’s policy of distancing the US from international organizations, especially when it comes to issues involving Israel. In June 2018, the US had already withdrawn from the Human Rights Council, citing similar concerns of bias, particularly against Israel.
The United States is the largest contributor to the UN’s regular budget, accounting for 22 percent of its total funding. China is the second-largest contributor.
This latest development is likely to deepen tensions between the US and the UN, as well as with the Palestinian leadership, which relies heavily on aid from UNRWA for refugees and displaced families.
