United States Withdraws From UNESCO

The United States announced its decision to withdraw from UNESCO, the UN cultural and education agency, effective December 2026. This marks the third time the United States has left UNESCO, with President Donald Trump ordering the withdrawal, reversing President Joe Biden's earlier reestablishment of membership. The primary reasons cited by the United States, through State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, include UNESCO's perceived bias against Israel, particularly its admission of Palestine as a member state and its recognition of heritage sites in the West Bank and east Jerusalem as Palestinian. Bruce also criticized UNESCO for promoting 'divisive social and cultural causes' and a 'globalist, ideological agenda' focused on UN sustainability goals. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay expressed regret but noted the organization was prepared for the financial impact, having undertaken structural reforms and diversified funding sources. Israel, through Foreign Minister Gideon Sa ar, welcomed the United States' decision, while China expressed regret, calling it an irresponsible action. French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed his unwavering support for UNESCO.