Tue Feb 04 23:20:00 UTC 2025: **Trump Ends US Engagement with UN Human Rights Council, Cuts UNRWA Funding**
**Washington, Feb 5, 2025** – President Donald Trump has announced an end to US engagement with the UN Human Rights Council and a continued halt to funding for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). This decision, coinciding with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, marks a continuation of Trump’s first-term policies.
Trump’s administration previously withdrew from the Human Rights Council, citing bias against Israel and a lack of reform. Funding for UNRWA was also cut, with the administration questioning its effectiveness and demanding Palestinian concessions regarding peace talks. While the Biden administration briefly resumed funding, it was suspended again in January 2024 following Israeli accusations of UNRWA staff involvement in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack. The US Congress then formally suspended contributions until at least March 2025.
The US was UNRWA’s largest donor, contributing $300-$400 million annually. UNRWA provides essential services, including aid, health care, and education, to millions of Palestinians in multiple regions. While the UN has acknowledged potential staff involvement in the October attack and taken disciplinary action, it has repeatedly requested evidence from Israel, which has yet to be provided. A recent Israeli ban further restricts UNRWA’s operations within Israel. The long-term impact of these decisions on Palestinian aid and the US’s international standing remains to be seen.
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