U.S. Revokes Visas for Palestinian Leaders Ahead of U.N. Meeting
In a significant move, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has revoked the visas of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and 80 other officials as the annual U.N. General Assembly approaches. This decision has sparked criticism from the Palestinian Authority, which claims it violates international law.
A State Department official, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed that Abbas and several others from the Palestinian Authority are affected by the new restrictions. However, Palestinian representatives working with the U.N. were granted exemptions.
This action is part of a broader series of measures undertaken by the Trump administration aimed at holding the Palestinian Authority accountable for failing to meet commitments related to peace and security. Recently, the Israeli military designated Gaza’s largest city as a combat zone, adding to the ongoing tensions in the region. Additionally, the State Department has suspended a program allowing injured Palestinian children from Gaza to receive medical treatment in the U.S. after concerns were raised by some conservative voices.
The State Department emphasized its commitment to holding the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian Authority accountable, stating that to be seen as partners for peace, these groups must reject terrorism and stop promoting it, especially in education.
The Palestinian Authority has labeled the visa revocations a breach of U.S. responsibilities as the host nation for the U.N., urging a reversal of this decision. They expressed “deep regret and astonishment” over the move, arguing that it goes against international agreements, particularly since Palestine holds observer status at the U.N.
In response, a U.N. spokesperson mentioned that the organization will seek clarification from the U.S. government on this matter, stressing the importance of representation for all member states and permanent observers.
While the U.S. has pledged to ensure that Palestinian representatives can continue their work at the U.N., the administration has increasingly tightened visa policies, a move seen by many as a necessary step to reinforce U.S. national security interests.
As Abbas was set to lead the Palestinian delegation at the U.N. meetings, expectations were high for his address and participation in discussions on a two-state solution, which envisions peaceful coexistence between Israel and an independent Palestine. This development once again highlights the complex and often contentious dynamics at play in U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
