US Bars Palestinian UN Delegation as UK Warns Settlers

The United States has extended visa restrictions on Palestinian Authority officials and Palestine Liberation Organisation members. This decision blocks their attendance at the annual United Nations General Assembly in New York. The move prevents President Mahmoud Abbas from traveling for a second consecutive year.

Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin condemned the American decision through an official statement posted on social media platform X. She stated that these measures undermine ongoing efforts towards achieving peace. The ministry emphasized that such actions negatively impact the viability of a two-state solution for the region.

Shahin declared that the State of Palestine firmly rejects the extension of these visa restrictions against its officials. She added that the country remains committed to international law and peaceful diplomacy. The ministry called on the United States to reverse the decisions and engage in constructive dialogue instead.

The US State Department justified its stance by claiming the Palestinian Authority failed to meet peace commitments. Officials cited continued legal action against Israel as a primary reason for the ban. They also pointed to efforts to internationalize the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as violating prior agreements with Washington.

In a separate development, the UK government warned British citizens living in Israeli settlements. They face potential sanctions under a new regime targeting settlement activity in the occupied West Bank. London urged them to be aware of any new sanctions imposed under this specific regulatory framework.

The Foreign Office estimates between twenty and thirty British citizens reside in these settlements. However, figures may not cover all nationals since notification is not mandatory. Britain considers such settlement activity contrary to international law and maintains existing advice against financial involvement there.