Israel withdraws from 7 UN agencies days after US exits 66 international bodies

Following the lead of the US, which recently exited 66 international organisations, Israel has announced its immediate withdrawal from seven United Nations agencies and affiliated bodies. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar characterised the move as a response to systemic anti-Israel bias and what he described as “ineffective and bloated bureaucracy.”

Sa’ar noted that the decision was triggered by a comprehensive review following the American withdrawal. He stated that Israel would “immediately sever all contact” with several specific agencies while reassessing its relationship with others. “The decision reflects a broader examination of organisations that consistently act against Israel or fail to function effectively,” Sa’ar said, adding that further exits could follow.

The announcement formalises several disengagements that were already underway. Israel had previously cut ties with the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children in Armed Conflict after the IDF was blacklisted in 2024. Sa’ar condemned the listing as “shameless,” arguing that “Israel is the only democratic country listed alongside ISIS and Boko Haram.”

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Similarly, Israel terminated its cooperation with UN Women in July 2024. The government accused the body of failing to acknowledge sexual violence committed against Israelis during the October 7 attacks. Sa’ar noted that the UN Secretary-General was formally notified last year that all engagement with the body would cease.

Other departures include the UN Conference on Trade and Development and the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia. Sa’ar claimed both groups have produced “virulent anti-Israel reports” over the years, making continued participation untenable for the state.

Looking forward, Israel is expanding its exit list to include the UN Alliance of Civilisations. Sa’ar argued that the body has “served for years as a platform for attacks against Israel” while excluding Israeli participation. Additionally, the nation will withdraw from UN Energy and the Global Forum on Migration and Development, citing “excessive and inefficient bureaucracy.”

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The Foreign Ministry is now conducting a sweeping evaluation of all remaining international engagements. This thorough review, coordinated with other government departments, will determine if additional diplomatic severances are required in the coming months.