Jonathan Harounoff to leave top UN role after two years representing Israel
British-Iranian spokesman says giving a voice to hostages and Iranian dissidents was his proudest achievement at the UN
Jonathan Harounoff is to step down as Israel’s international spokesman at the United Nations after nearly two years representing the country during one of the most challenging periods in its recent history.
The London-born spokesman will leave the role on 1 July, ending a tenure that saw him become one of Israel’s most visible advocates at the UN following the 7 October attacks and the war with Hamas.
Before joining Israel’s mission in New York, Harounoff built a reputation as a journalist covering Israel, Iran and the wider Middle East. During his time at the United Nations, he sought to highlight both the plight of Israeli hostages and the struggles of Iranians living under the Islamic Republic.
Speaking to Jewish News, Harounoff said two achievements stood out above all others.
“The two achievements I’m proudest of are providing an important spotlight to released hostages and families of hostages to come to the United Nations and share their urgent and harrowing stories at a time when the UN was not coming to their aid,” he said.
He also highlighted efforts to amplify the voices of Iranian dissidents.
“Amplifying the voices of the Iranian people in my position as someone who is Persian by heritage and has written extensively about the extraordinary Iranian people, their plight, and, crucially, distinguishing them from the oppressors,” he said.
Harounoff pointed to recent events featuring Iranian women injured during anti-regime protests, including Shiva Amini and Raheleh Amiri, who was shot in the eye during the 2022 uprising.
“I’m proud of having been able to build a bridge of mutual appreciation and understanding between the Iranian people and the people of Israel,” he added.
The 31-year-old, whose family roots are in Iran, also authored Unveiled: Inside Iran’s #WomanLifeFreedom Revolt, examining the 2022 protests against the Iranian regime.
Looking ahead, Harounoff said: “As for what’s next, I’m working on a second book – a largely untold story during the Iranian Revolution of 1979.
“I’m going to continue writing and will be building my communications and PR company called Noff Media to help spotlight individuals and organisations across industries who are making the world a better place.”
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