Israel Exits Seven UN Agencies Citing Bias

Israel has announced its immediate withdrawal from seven United Nations agencies and affiliated bodies, days after the United States exited 66 international organisations. The decision marks a significant escalation in Israel’s disengagement from multilateral forums and reflects growing tensions with UN institutions over allegations of political bias and bureaucratic inefficiency.

Decision Triggered by Review After US Move

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said the withdrawals followed a comprehensive internal review conducted after the United States’ recent exits. He stated that Israel would immediately sever contact with select agencies while reassessing ties with others. According to Sa’ar, several UN bodies have consistently acted against Israel or failed to function effectively, making continued engagement untenable.

Agencies Already Cut Off

The announcement formalised disengagements that were already underway. Israel had previously ended ties with the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children in Armed Conflict after the Israel Defense Forces were placed on a UN blacklist in 2024. The government condemned the move, arguing that Israel was unfairly grouped with extremist organisations. Cooperation with UN Women was also terminated in July 2024, with Israel accusing the body of failing to address sexual violence committed against Israelis during the October 7 attacks.

Additional Withdrawals and Criticism

Israel has also withdrawn from the UN Conference on Trade and Development and the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia. Sa’ar claimed both organisations have produced what he described as persistently hostile reports against Israel. Looking ahead, Israel plans to exit the UN Alliance of Civilisations, UN Energy, and the Global Forum on Migration and Development, citing anti-Israel positioning and excessive bureaucracy.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The United Nations system includes specialised agencies, funds, and regional commissions.
• Member states can withdraw from UN bodies without exiting the UN itself.
• UN Women focuses on gender equality and women’s empowerment globally.
• UNCTAD deals with trade, investment, and development issues.

Wider Review of International Engagements

The Israeli Foreign Ministry has initiated a broader evaluation of all remaining international commitments in coordination with other government departments. Officials indicated that further withdrawals remain possible, depending on the outcome of the review. The move underscores a shift towards a more selective multilateral engagement strategy, prioritising forums Israel views as neutral, effective, and aligned with its national interests.