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The United States has again denied Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas an entry visa to attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York, marking the second consecutive year he has been barred from attending the annual gathering in person.
The decision came ahead of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, whose high-level general debate is scheduled for September 22–28.
The US State Department said it would extend visa restrictions on officials of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), accusing them of failing to meet commitments made to Washington.
According to the State Department, the restrictions relate to Palestinian efforts to pursue action against Israel through international institutions, including the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), as well as efforts to seek recognition of a Palestinian state outside direct negotiations. Washington also cited what it described as continued payments to individuals convicted of attacks and the glorification of terrorism.
The decision mirrors Washington’s move ahead of last year’s UN General Assembly, when Abbas was also denied a visa and addressed the gathering by video.
The UN General Assembly is expected to consider allowing Abbas to participate remotely again this year.
Palestinian diplomats who are already accredited to the United Nations can continue to represent the Palestinian side at the gathering.
The Palestinian leadership has not publicly responded to the latest US decision at the time of reporting.
