The United States has announced it will once again withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), citing ideological differences and dissatisfaction with the agency’s focus on global development issues.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed on Tuesday that the decision, led by President Donald Trump’s administration, is rooted in concerns over UNESCO’s “divisive social and cultural causes” and what she described as an agenda misaligned with “America First” foreign policy. The withdrawal will take effect at the end of next year.

This marks the second time the US has exited UNESCO under Trump. The country rejoined the agency in 2023 under President Joe Biden, following a previous withdrawal in 2017.

Bruce specifically criticized UNESCO’s inclusion of Palestine as a member and its alleged anti-Israel stance. “Admitting the ‘State of Palestine’ has contributed to the proliferation of anti-Israel rhetoric and contradicts US policy,” she said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed “deep regret” over the decision, emphasizing the historical role the US has played in shaping the organization. Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s Director-General, said the move undermines the principles of multilateralism and could negatively affect many US-based initiatives, including cultural heritage nominations and educational partnerships.

The US was the largest contributor to UNESCO in 2023, providing $28 million, or 22% of its budget. However, Azoulay noted that ongoing support from other member states has reduced US financial influence to just 8%.

This latest withdrawal aligns with Trump’s broader skepticism toward international institutions. His administration previously exited the World Health Organization over its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.