In a swift move following President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced the Jewish state’s cessation of participation. This announcement, made on Wednesday, reinforced Israel’s alignment with the US, stating, “Israel joins the United States and will not participate in the UNHRC.” This decision unfolded shortly after a high-profile meeting between Trump and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Though neither Israel nor the US are members of the UNHRC, they had maintained an informal observer status. Sa’ar expressed Israel’s approval of Trump’s withdrawal, criticizing the council, which he believes enables human rights offenders to evade accountability while targeting Israel, the sole democratic nation in the region. He stated, “The UNHRC has traditionally protected human rights abusers…instead obsessively demonizes the one democracy in the Middle East — Israel.”
Sa’ar further condemned the UNHRC for its discriminatory practices, emphasizing that Israel uniquely faces a dedicated agenda item within the council. He pointed out the overwhelming number of over 100 resolutions condemning Israel, which represents more than 20% of all motions passed by the council, far exceeding those against countries notorious for human rights violations like Iran and North Korea. “Israel will not accept this discrimination any longer!” he declared.
Trump’s recent announcement also included cutting funds to UNRWA, which serves Palestinian communities across the Middle East. This funding halt was influenced by accusations that some UNRWA employees had involvement in the recent Hamas attack on southern Israel. Notably, Trump had previously withdrawn from the UNHRC in 2018, citing a chronic bias against Israel. While Trump’s successor, President Biden, initially restored support for the council, the US later opted not to pursue a consecutive term.
Israel has decided to stop its participation in the UN Human Rights Council just a day after President Trump announced the US would also withdraw. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar criticized the UNHRC for its bias against Israel and pointed out the disproportionate number of resolutions condemning the country compared to other nations. Trump also announced he would cease funding to UNRWA, further escalating tensions.
The unfolding events encapsulate a moment of solidarity between the United States and Israel, as both nations express deep discontent toward the UNHRC. They argue that the council disproportionately targets Israel while failing to hold genuine human rights abusers accountable. Gideon Sa’ar’s comments reflect a growing sentiment of frustration within Israel regarding perceived biases, affirming their commitment to boycott the council alongside the US. By withdrawing from the UNHRC, both countries do not just illustrate their disapproval of its practices, but also seek to redefine their roles on the global stage in matters involving human rights and international diplomacy.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
