Trump Administration Foreign Policy Directives

February 04, 2025

President Trump issued executive orders and supporting fact sheets outlining a series of foreign policy actions. These include withdrawing from certain UN organizations, restoring maximum pressure sanctions on Iran, and prohibiting future funding for specific organizations due to concerns about their effectiveness, alignment with U.S. interests, and alleged connections to terrorism. The administration aims to protect U.S. interests, counter malign influence, and prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. These actions represent a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, reflecting a more isolationist and protectionist stance, particularly regarding international organizations. These policies align with Project 2025's goal of reducing U.S. involvement in international organizations deemed detrimental to American interests.

Withdrawal from UN Organizations and Funding Restrictions

The U.S. will withdraw from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and prohibit funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

The U.S. will not participate in or seek election to the UNHRC. The Secretary of State will terminate the office of U.S. Representative to the UNHRC and related positions.

Funding for UNRWA will be prohibited, and the U.S. proportionate share of UN Regular Budget funding for UNHRC will be withheld.

A review of U.S. membership in UNESCO will be conducted within 90 days, assessing its alignment with U.S. interests and addressing concerns about anti-Semitism and anti-Israel sentiment.

A broader review of all international organizations to which the U.S. is a member or provides funding will be conducted within 180 days to determine if they are contrary to U.S. interests and if reforms are possible.

Restoration of Maximum Pressure on Iran

The U.S. will restore maximum pressure on Iran, denying it all paths to a nuclear weapon and countering its malign influence.

Sanctions and enforcement remedies will be imposed on individuals and entities involved in activities violating Iran-related sanctions.

A robust sanctions enforcement campaign will be implemented to deny Iran and its proxies access to revenue.

Sanctions waivers providing Iran economic or financial relief will be reviewed for modification or rescission.

A diplomatic campaign will be led to isolate Iran internationally, including denying freedom of movement and safe haven to the IRGC and its proxies.