President Donald Trump is expected to issue an executive order withdrawing the U.S. from the U.N. Human Rights Council and stopping future funding for the U.N. relief agency for Gaza, according to a document obtained by POLITICO.
The move, reinstating policies from the previous Trump administration, is seen as a response to the council’s alleged bias against Israel and its failure to address human rights abuses by certain governments. This decision comes just before a meeting between President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington.
US Stance on Human Rights Organizations
In the past, the U.S. has criticized the UN Human Rights Council for its treatment of Israel and its handling of global human rights issues. The Biden administration had paused funding to UNRWA due to concerns about staff involvement in an attack by Hamas on Israel.
Additionally, questions have been raised about the alignment of the United States Agency for International Development with the current administration’s policies and priorities.
UNRWA’s Role in Gaza
UNRWA plays a crucial role in providing aid to Gaza’s population, particularly after humanitarian crises resulting from conflicts in the region. However, the agency faced scrutiny when several staffers were dismissed for possible involvement in an attack.
US Relationship with the UNHRC
The U.S. has had a complex history with the UN Human Rights Council, engaging with the organization during certain administrations and disengaging during others. The forthcoming executive order signals another chapter in this back-and-forth relationship.
International Response
While the White House has criticized the UNHRC for its treatment of Israel, human rights organizations and some lawmakers argue that the council plays a vital role in addressing global human rights violations. Similarly, UNRWA has been a lifeline for displaced Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts in the region.
As part of the executive order, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is tasked with reviewing international organizations that may promote anti-American sentiment, with a focus on UNESCO.
Conclusion
The decision to withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council and halt funding for UNRWA reflects the administration’s stance on international organizations and their alignment with American interests. It also underscores the ongoing debate about the role of such entities in promoting human rights and addressing conflicts.
