US Rejoins UNESCO, Leaving Israel and China in a Delicate Position

The United States' return to UNESCO after a six-year absence has put Israel in an awkward position. While the US recognized changes in UNESCO's approach to Middle East issues, Israel's chances of returning to the organization are currently slim. UNESCO texts affecting Israel are now accepted by consensus after consultations with Jordan, Palestine, and Israel, even though Israel is no longer a member. Russia, Iran, Syria, and Palestine expressed objections to the financial arrangements involved in the US return, while Iraq, Mauritania, Algeria, and Libya welcomed the proposal. The US and UNESCO have a complicated relationship, with the US leaving in 2017 over resolutions criticizing Israel. Israel left shortly after. Since President Joe Biden took office, his administration has worked to enable the US return to UNESCO. Israel maintains some ties with UNESCO through various projects and conventions.