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President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that the United States will officially withdraw from the U.N. Human Rights Council and will permanently end funding for the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The decision, unveiled during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, aligns with longstanding U.S. and Israeli concerns over alleged bias in U.N. institutions.
Trump cited the council’s treatment of Israel and the U.N.’s funding disparities as key reasons for the move. “I’ve always felt that the U.N. has tremendous potential,” Trump told reporters. “It’s not living up to that potential right now. … They’ve got to get their act together.”
End of U.S. Support for UNRWA
The U.S. had already suspended contributions to UNRWA following accusations from Israel that the agency harbored Hamas militants involved in the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks. UNRWA denies the allegations, though an internal U.N. investigation found that nine of the agency’s employees may have been involved.
Trump’s action permanently halts U.S. funding for UNRWA, which had been the agency’s largest donor under the Biden administration, contributing $422 million in 2023. The U.S. decision follows similar funding freezes by 18 other countries, most of which have since resumed payments.
Reassessment of U.N. Engagement
Trump’s executive orders also call for a review of U.S. involvement in UNESCO and an evaluation of U.S. financial contributions to the broader U.N. system. The United States currently funds 22% of the U.N.’s operating budget, with China being the second-largest contributor.
U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric defended the Human Rights Council and UNRWA, emphasizing their roles in humanitarian aid and oversight. “UNRWA provides critical services to Palestinians, and the Human Rights Council remains an essential forum for international accountability,” he said.
Political and Global Reactions
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups and international allies. Critics argue that the move weakens global human rights protections and undermines efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
On the other hand, Netanyahu welcomed Trump’s actions, stating, “For too long, these organizations have been used to unfairly target Israel. This is a necessary step toward restoring fairness at the U.N.”
While Trump’s executive order does not immediately impact the Human Rights Council—since the U.S. was not currently a member—it reinforces his administration’s broader shift away from multilateral institutions. The long-term implications of these decisions will likely play a role in upcoming debates over U.S. foreign policy and its role within the United Nations.
