President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Tuesday that will withdraw the United States from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). This decision, which was confirmed by a White House official speaking on the condition of anonymity, marks a continuation of Trump’s previous stance during his first term, when he also severed ties with the council, citing its perceived bias against Israel.
The executive order will also include a directive to halt future funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), an organization that provides essential aid to Palestinians. The Biden administration had previously paused funding to UNRWA amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, following allegations that some agency staff had connections to Hamas. However, an independent review later found no evidence to support these claims.
The announcement comes at a significant time, as it coincides with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the White House, which will be Trump’s first meeting with a foreign leader since taking office last month. This meeting is expected to focus on strengthening U.S.-Israel relations and discussing regional security issues.
Critics of the UNHRC, including multiple U.S. leaders from both political parties, have long argued that the council is biased against Israel, which has fueled ongoing debates about the effectiveness and fairness of international human rights organizations. The upcoming executive order reflects Trump’s administration’s continued prioritization of its foreign policy agenda, particularly regarding Israel and Palestine.
As the situation unfolds, the implications of this decision on U.S. relations with both Israel and Palestine, as well as its impact on humanitarian efforts in the region, remain to be seen.