Trump withdraws from Unesco because it recognises Palestine

The Trump administration on Tuesday announced it will be withdrawing from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) because the agency admitted Palestine as a member.

"Unesco’s decision to admit the 'State of Palestine' as a Member State is highly problematic, contrary to US policy, and contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric within the organization," the State Department said. 

"Continued involvement in Unesco is not in the national interest of the United States". 

The withdrawal, per the rules, will not take effect until 31 December, 2026.

US President Donald Trump withdrew from Unesco during his first term for the very same reason, before his successor Joe Biden rejoined the agency.

And under former president Barack Obama, US funding to Unesco was suspended when it first recognised Palestine as a member in 2011.