Posted on Thursday, February 6, 2025
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by Matt Kane
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19 Comments
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President Donald Trump formally signed an executive order this week withdrawing the United States from two United Nations entities: the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). According to Trump, these decisive actions were taken as part of the administration’s commitment to prioritizing American interests and addressing longstanding concerns about these organizations’ operations and biases.
The UNHRC was established in 2006 to promote and protect human rights globally. However, it has faced criticism for including member countries with questionable human rights records and for exhibiting a perceived bias against Israel and the United States.
Trump previously withdrew the U.S. from the UNHRC in June 2018, citing these issues. Biden quickly rejoined the UNHRC after taking office. By stepping away from the UNHRC again, the Trump administration is signaling its refusal to legitimize an organization that, in its view, fails to uphold the principles it was designed to protect.
UNRWA was established in 1949 to provide assistance to Palestinian refugees. However, critics argue that the agency perpetuates the refugee status of Palestinians and has been linked to activities that undermine peace efforts in the Middle East.
During his first term, President Trump halted funding to UNRWA, expressing concerns over its operations and the need for Palestinians to engage in peace negotiations with Israel. The continuation of this policy reflects the administration’s stance that U.S. resources should not support organizations that do not align with American interests or contribute to lasting peace in the region.
In his executive order, Trump cited reports that the UNRWA has “been infiltrated by members of groups long designated by the Secretary of State as foreign terrorist organizations, and UNRWA employees were involved in the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.”
In announcing these decisions, Trump emphasized the need for international bodies to operate effectively and without bias. He stated, “I’ve always felt that the U.N. has tremendous potential. It’s not living up to that potential right now. It really hasn’t for a long time.” This sentiment reflects a broader critique of international organizations that, in the administration’s view, have strayed from their foundational missions.
The presence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House during the announcement underscored the strong alliance between the United States and Israel. Both leaders have been vocal about perceived biases within the U.N. system, particularly concerning Israel. This move aligns with the administration’s commitment to supporting allies and challenging international bodies that, in its assessment, fail to uphold impartiality and effectiveness.
Trump has also directed a comprehensive review of U.S. involvement in other U.N. bodies to identify and address any anti-American sentiment. This proactive approach aims to ensure that international engagements serve the nation’s interests and reflect its values. The administration’s willingness to reassess and, if necessary, withdraw from international commitments demonstrates a prioritization of American sovereignty and a demand for accountability from global institutions.
Matt Kane earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Stony Brook University. His work has been posted by President Trump, RealClearPolitics, and American Thinker. X/Twitter: @MattKaneUSA Truth Social @MattKane
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