The US has barred Palestinian officials from attending the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York, scheduled for September.
The US State Department announced on August 29 that it is “denying and revoking visas” for members of the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Palestinian Authority.
This decision comes as several Western countries prepare to recognise a Palestinian state. The US statement accused the Palestine Liberation Organization and the Palestinian Authority of failing to repudiate terrorism, inciting violence, and pursuing “international lawfare campaigns” through the International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice.
The move is seen as a significant development in the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with the US historically playing a key role in mediating peace negotiations. The UN General Assembly has previously adopted resolutions supporting Palestinian rights, including a recent vote urging the Security Council to give “favourable consideration” to Palestine’s application for full UN membership ¹.
The Palestinian Authority has long sought full recognition as a sovereign state, with many countries already acknowledging its status. However, a two-state solution remains elusive, and tensions between Israelis and Palestinians continue to escalate.
In response to similar situations, UN Ambassador Robert Wood has stated that the US supports Palestinian statehood but believes it should come from direct negotiations between the parties. “We have not seen a path forward that guarantees Israel’s security and future as a democratic Jewish State and guarantees Palestinians can live in peace and dignity in a State of their own,” he said.
This decision by the US may impact ongoing diplomatic efforts and the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The UN General Assembly’s session will likely provide a platform for further discussions on the matter.