The US has barred Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas from attending the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York. The decision follows the revocation of visas for Abbas and around 80 Palestinian officials.
The US State Department confirmed the move, citing concerns over Palestinian actions that undermine peace efforts. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Palestinians are pushing for “unilateral recognition of a conjectural Palestinian state.” This has led the US to restrict their participation.
This action comes amid a campaign led by France, with support from the UK, Canada, and Australia, to recognize Palestine at the UN. The US opposes this move and maintains a firm stance against it.
According to the UN Headquarters Agreement, the US should allow all foreign officials to attend the assembly, regardless of political relations. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said talks with the US are ongoing to address the situation. He stressed that all members and observers must be represented at the UN.
The Palestinian Authority has strongly condemned the US decision. Abbas’ office called it a violation of international law and the UN Headquarters Agreement. Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour said Abbas was expected to lead the delegation.
Israel welcomed the US’s decision. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar praised the move, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the two-state solution. He described recognizing Palestine as rewarding terrorism.
Palestine currently holds observer status at the UN and is recognized by 147 of 193 member states. France’s push for recognition comes during ongoing violence in Gaza, where thousands have died since October.
While some Palestinian officials based in New York can still attend UN meetings, barring Abbas and senior officials may weaken Palestine’s role in key discussions. This includes talks on the two-state solution planned by France and Saudi Arabia.
The US’s visa decision raises questions about international law and diplomatic protocol, making the issue a key focus in upcoming UN sessions.
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