Israel has formally announced that it will not rejoin the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), one year after its withdrawal, citing what it describes as ongoing institutional bias against the country.

Speaking in Geneva, Israeli Ambassador Daniel Meron said the Council has failed to address longstanding concerns about neutrality and fairness in its treatment of Israel. He argued that the body’s credibility has further deteriorated following the events of October 7, 2023, and criticized what he described as a disproportionate focus on Israel compared to other global human rights crises.

According to Ambassador Meron, no meaningful reforms have been introduced since Israel’s exit, and the structural issues that prompted the withdrawal remain unresolved. He emphasized that Israel would not return to the Council unless significant changes are made to ensure equal treatment of all member states.

Israel has long accused the UNHRC of maintaining a systemic bias, particularly through agenda items and investigative mechanisms specifically targeting Israeli policies. The Council, however, maintains that it addresses human rights concerns worldwide in accordance with its mandate.