In a significant diplomatic move, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced that Israel will withdraw from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Saar conveyed the decision through a letter to the UNHRC President, which underlined “ongoing and unrelenting institutional bias against Israel in the Human Rights Council.” His statement included strong criticism of what he perceives as the body’s use as a platform to politically demonize Israel, a sentiment that reflects long-standing grievances against the council’s focus on the Jewish state.
The specific ire of Israel’s foreign ministry is directed at Item 7 of the UNHRC’s agenda, which is dedicated to scrutinizing human rights and international law violations in Palestinian territories. Saar noted that such agenda items contribute to the council’s perceived lack of objectivity, making fair analysis difficult. The UNHRC was criticized for its handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict through a special rapporteur, further heightening tensions.
This move sees Israel aligning its stance with the United States, following the order signed by US President Donald Trump to also withdraw from the UNHRC. Israel’s latest departure from the UN council marks a full withdrawal from a body it had re-joined as an observer in 2015, following a prior exit in 2012.
The UNHRC, created in 2006, serves as the primary global institution focused on human rights dialogue and advocacy. It aims to reflect international consensus and develop procedures to address human rights issues worldwide. However, Israel’s complaints underscore contentious debates about its effectiveness and impartiality, placing the council under renewed scrutiny. More details on this development can be found in the JURIST report.