US Bars Palestinian Officials from UN General Assembly Participation
The United States has officially barred Palestinian officials from attending the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York. Documents reviewed by The Post indicate that the State Department will deny visas to members of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), including PA President Mahmoud Abbas.
The decision follows sanctions imposed on July 31, 2023, due to non-compliance with the PLO Commitments Compliance Act of 1989 and the Middle East Peace Commitments Act of 2002. State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott stated, “In compliance with the laws and national security interests of the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is denying and revoking visas from members of the PLO and PA ahead of the upcoming UN General Assembly.”
Reasoning Behind the Visa Denial
According to Pigott, the U.S. government demands that the PA and PLO take significant steps to be recognized as credible partners for peace. He emphasized the need for these organizations to reject terrorism and cease unilateral statehood pursuits. “The United States remains open to re-engagement should the PA/PLO demonstrably take concrete steps to return to constructive engagement,” he added.
The sanctions also arise from actions by Palestinian entities, which the U.S. claims include “unilaterally declaring Palestinian statehood, glorifying violence, promoting antisemitism, and providing material support to terrorists.” Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau highlighted these concerns during previous statements regarding the Palestinian leadership.
Implications for the UN General Assembly
Despite the visa denials, Palestinian officials had intended to participate in the September 2023 UN General Assembly. Reports indicate that President Abbas was set to introduce a “constitutional declaration” asserting Palestinian independence. The sensitive memo also mentioned a planned French-Saudi conference focused on a two-state solution, suggesting that it would benefit Hamas and undermine U.S. influence in potential ceasefire discussions.
“This reduces U.S. options in ceasefire talks and in the postwar ‘endgame,’” the memo stated.
This decision marks a significant precedent, as it is the first instance of the U.S. waiving visa privileges for an entire foreign delegation. It comes amid a backdrop of support for Palestinian statehood from foreign leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, who have indicated a willingness to discuss the issue at the upcoming assembly.
The U.S. stands firm on its position, asserting that the Palestinians must demonstrate a commitment to peace and compliance with international agreements before being welcomed back to the global diplomatic stage.
