5 December 2006
The US envoy to the United Nations in New York, John Bolton, is to resign from his post for failing to win support in Congress. The White House announced that Bolton would step down once his recess appointment ends. President Bush had given Bolton the position in August 2005, but his nomination was blocked in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. The appointment will expire by early January, though Bolton may step down earlier. During his tenure, Bolton gave strong support to Israel and was an opponent of Iran's nuclear plans. The World Jewish Congress American Section expressed its deep appreciation to Bolton. American Section chairwoman Evelyn Sommer said: "We deeply regret that Ambassador Bolton is leaving his post at such an important moment for the United States and the international community. His leadership and commitment, before and during his tenure at the UN, have been very important to all Americans and to the Jewish community. I have personally enjoyed working closely with him, including 15 years ago to rescind the UN's notorious resolution equating Zionism with racism. His role at the UN has been historic, and we look forward to continuing our long association with him and the ideals we share."
