US President Donald Trump is reportedly set to withdraw the United States from the UN Human Rights Council and extend the funding ban on the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, according to an unnamed White House official. This decision coincides with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House, highlighting the continued tension surrounding US-Israel relations regarding international human rights issues.
The withdrawal from the Human Rights Council is not new for Trump; he previously exited the council in 2018, claiming it exhibited “chronic bias” against Israel. As reported by news outlets like Politico and NPR, this executive order aims to cut ties with these UN bodies and reflects a broader pattern, as Trump has disconnected the US from various international agreements since assuming office.
During the last US review by the council in 2020, numerous recommendations were issued to enhance America’s human rights framework, including tackling racism and closing the Guantanamo Bay prison. However, the council has faced scrutiny for its critical stance on countries, including Israel, which has drawn sharper attention from UN rapporteurs accusing Israeli forces of serious violations in Gaza, like genocide.
In conjunction, Trump’s executive order concerning UNRWA arrives amid reports of significant violence, where Israeli forces killed numerous UNRWA staff during the latest Gaza conflict. Founded in 1949, UNRWA provides essential services to millions of Palestinians, and this funding ban—once supported by significant US contributions—could considerably impact humanitarian efforts amidst ongoing crises and conflict.
Following Biden’s pause on UNRWA funding due to accusations against its staff, Congress has since suspended contributions until early 2025, despite limited evidence supporting these claims. This financial cut comes at a critical moment, as UNRWA plays a pivotal role in supporting Palestinians recovering from recent escalations, while Trump and Netanyahu prepare to negotiate future ceasefire terms when they meet. As photons of hope flicker in war-torn regions, circumstances remain delicate, with Trump acknowledging the absence of “guarantees” concerning any long-term ceasefire resolution.
According to reports, Trump will withdraw the US from the UN Human Rights Council and extend the ban on UNRWA funds on the day Netanyahu visits the White House. This aligns with Trump’s previous actions against international agreements and agencies, raising concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. UNRWA has been critical in aiding Palestinians amid ongoing conflict, with US funding playing a crucial role until recently.
Trump’s decisions to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council and extend the funding ban on UNRWA reflect ongoing tensions between US foreign policy and international human rights advocacy. As these decisions unfold alongside Netanyahu’s visit, the humanitarian impact of such measures, particularly on Palestinians, raises significant concerns about stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
