United States to Leave UNESCO Again, Citing Anti-Israel Agenda
US withdrawal comes only two years after rejoining the UN agency.
The United States announced its intention to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) effective December 31, 2026.
This decision marks the third time the US has exited UNESCO, following a pattern set by previous administrations.
The move is attributed to concerns over the organization's perceived promotion of anti-Israel rhetoric and acceptance of 'State of Palestine' as a member state.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce highlighted that this stance contradicts long-standing American policy, emphasizing the agency's focus on advancing what it terms "divisive social and cultural causes." This withdrawal comes just two years after the US rejoined UNESCO in 2023 following its departure during Donald Trump's presidency in 2018.
The decision was anticipated by UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay, who dismissed accusations of anti-Israel bias.
She underscored the organization's commitment to Holocaust education and combating antisemitism, asserting that such claims do not align with UNESCO's efforts.
The reasons for withdrawal echo those from 2017 under the Trump administration, which cited similar grievances, including anti-Israel sentiment.
This latest move reflects a reevaluation of international engagement and highlights ongoing tensions concerning cultural and political agendas within global organizations.
This decision marks the third time the US has exited UNESCO, following a pattern set by previous administrations.
The move is attributed to concerns over the organization's perceived promotion of anti-Israel rhetoric and acceptance of 'State of Palestine' as a member state.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce highlighted that this stance contradicts long-standing American policy, emphasizing the agency's focus on advancing what it terms "divisive social and cultural causes." This withdrawal comes just two years after the US rejoined UNESCO in 2023 following its departure during Donald Trump's presidency in 2018.
The decision was anticipated by UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay, who dismissed accusations of anti-Israel bias.
She underscored the organization's commitment to Holocaust education and combating antisemitism, asserting that such claims do not align with UNESCO's efforts.
The reasons for withdrawal echo those from 2017 under the Trump administration, which cited similar grievances, including anti-Israel sentiment.
This latest move reflects a reevaluation of international engagement and highlights ongoing tensions concerning cultural and political agendas within global organizations.
