The U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has barred Palestinian officials, including Palestinian Authority Leader Mahmoud Abbas, from attending next month’s UN General Assembly in New York. The State Department revoked their visas under sanctions citing support for terrorism, unilateral statehood moves, and “glorifying violence.”
This unprecedented action marks the first time the U.S. has blocked an entire foreign delegation from participating in the UN General Assembly. The decision reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Palestinian leadership, particularly in light of recent developments in U.S. foreign policy towards the region.
The sanctions follow a history of strained relations, with previous reports indicating that the Trump administration had similarly revoked visas for Palestinian officials ahead of UNGA sessions. The U.S. has maintained a critical stance on Palestinian actions perceived as undermining peace efforts with Israel.
The impact of this decision is significant, as it not only isolates Palestinian leadership on an international stage but also raises questions about U.S. commitment to a two-state solution. As the UNGA approaches, the implications of this barring will be closely monitored, with potential responses from the Palestinian Authority and other nations expected in the coming weeks.
