Palestinian officials barred from UN gathering as US extends visa curbs

Palestinian officials barred from UN gathering as US extends visa curbs

Palestinian Authority's foreign ministry has rejected the United States’ decision to extend visa restrictions on officials and members of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) ahead of the annual United Nations General Assembly. 

Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin said the restrictions undermine efforts towards peace and a two-state solution.

“The State of Palestine firmly rejects US extension of visa restrictions against Palestinian officials and PLO members,” Shahin said in a post on X, adding that the measures “undermine peace and a two-state solution”. 

The US move prevents Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and other senior officials from travelling to New York for the second consecutive year.

The US state department said the Palestinian Authority and PLO had failed to meet commitments to pursue peace with Israel and cited their continued legal action against Israel and efforts to “internationalise” the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The State of Palestine firmly rejects U.S. extension of visa restrictions against Palestinian officials&PLO members. These measures undermine peace and two-state solution.

We remain committed to int. law & peaceful diplomacy. We call on U.S. to reverse them&engage in dialogue🇵🇸

— Varsen Aghabekian Shahin (@VarsenAghShahin) September 18, 2026