President Donald Trump announced the United States’ withdrawal from the U.N. Human Rights Council and the discontinuation of funding for the U.N. agency aiding Palestinian refugees. The U.S. departed from the Human Rights Council last year and ceased funding for the agency due to allegations of harboring Hamas militants involved in attacks in Israel, which UNRWA denies. This decision coincided with Trump’s meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has long criticized both entities for bias against Israel and antisemitism.

In addition to these actions, Trump’s executive orders called for a review of U.S. involvement in UNESCO and a reassessment of American funding for the United Nations. Trump expressed disappointment in the U.N.’s current state, emphasizing the need for fairness and accountability among member countries. Prior to Trump’s announcement, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric highlighted the Human Rights Council’s significance and UNRWA’s crucial services to Palestinians.

While Trump’s order has limited immediate impact as the U.S. is not a council member, it signifies a broader stance on international organizations. UNRWA, established in 1949 to aid displaced Palestinians, faced funding cuts following the Hamas attacks in Gaza. Despite ongoing controversies, UNRWA continues to provide essential services to millions of Palestinians in various regions. The U.S.’s decision to withhold funding adds to existing tensions surrounding the agency’s operations and underscores the complex dynamics within U.N. bodies.