US Extends Visa Ban on Palestinian Officials Ahead of UN Assembly

The Palestinian Authority’s foreign ministry has firmly rejected the United States decision to extend visa restrictions on officials. This action targets members of the Palestine Liberation Organisation ahead of the annual United Nations General Assembly session in New York.

Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin stated that these restrictions undermine ongoing efforts towards achieving peace. She emphasized that such measures negatively impact the prospects for a viable two-state solution between the conflicting parties in the region.

Shahin posted on the social media platform X to express the official stance of the State of Palestine. She affirmed their firm rejection of the extended visa restrictions against Palestinian officials and PLO members during this critical diplomatic period.

The statement added that these measures undermine peace and the two-state solution significantly. The ministry reiterated its commitment to international law and peaceful diplomacy as the primary means to resolve the long-standing conflict with Israel.

The US State Department explained that the Palestinian Authority and PLO failed to meet commitments. They cited continued legal action against Israel and efforts to internationalize the conflict as reasons for maintaining the strict visa curbs now.

This US move prevents Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and other senior officials from travelling to New York. It marks the second consecutive year that these key figures are barred from attending the important global diplomatic gathering in the United States.