On February 4, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, stating that the country will withdraw from the United Nations Human Rights Council and halt funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This announcement coincided with a meeting between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both of whom have long criticized the council and UNRWA for perceived bias against Israel.
This decisive move follows last year’s withdrawal from the Human Rights Council, which was based on accusations that UNRWA harbored militants involved in violent attacks. While the U.S. had already ceased funding for UNRWA, Trump’s latest executive orders also call for a review of U.S. involvement in UNESCO and funding disparities within the U.N. system. He emphasized that the U.S. contributes a significant 22% to the U.N.’s budget, higher than any other nation.
As he addressed reporters, Trump expressed his disillusionment with the U.N., stating that it has “tremendous potential” but is currently failing to meet expectations. His remarks implied a need for fairness in international relations, hinting at a perceived double standard favoring certain nations over others.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric defended the Human Rights Council and the essential services provided by UNRWA, highlighting its critical role in assisting Palestinians. Notably, Trump previously withdrew from the Human Rights Council in June 2018, citing its bias. Although President Biden reinstated U.S. support for the council after winning a seat in 2021, the current administration has chosen not to pursue another term.
Despite Trump’s withdrawal announcement, its actual impact may be minimal since the U.S. has not been a member of the council for some time. However, the U.S. will retain informal observer status during meetings, maintaining a presence in the council’s sessions in Geneva. Established in 1949, UNRWA aims to support Palestinians displaced by historical conflicts, providing vital services to millions in the region, including education and healthcare.
Funding for UNRWA has been a contentious issue, with Israel alleging bias in its programming, a claim the agency has strongly denied. The recent violence has led several nations to freeze support for UNRWA, but most have resumed funding except for the U.S., which has legislatively halted any aid until March 2025, following Trump’s actions that ensure no funding will be reinstated.
President Trump announced the U.S. withdrawal from the U.N. Human Rights Council and the cessation of funding to UNRWA, coinciding with a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. This decision follows accusations of bias against Israel and militant affiliations with UNRWA. Trump also initiated reviews of U.S. contributions to the U.N. and UNESCO, reflecting a critical stance towards international organizations. The impact remains to be seen, particularly in light of UNRWA’s crucial support for Palestinian refugees.
President Trump’s announcement marks a pivotal moment in U.S. foreign policy regarding human rights and support for Palestinian refugees. His decisions reflect ongoing tensions between the U.S., Israel, and international bodies, emphasizing the complexities of diplomatic relations. As UNRWA continues to provide aid to millions, the future of U.S. engagement in humanitarian support remains uncertain, navigating between global responsibilities and political realities.
Original Source: apnews.com
