US Approves Visas for Iranian President, Foreign Minister to Attend UN General Assembly
WASHINGTON:** The Trump administration has approved visas for Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and other members of Iran’s core delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly’s high-level session in New York next week.
The US State Department confirmed that visas had been issued to Iran’s core delegation and essential staff. The approval will allow President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi to participate in the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Week.
According to the State Department, the decision was made in accordance with the United States’ responsibilities as the host country of the United Nations. However, the Iranian delegation will be subject to travel restrictions and limitations on the purchase of luxury and certain other goods.
The Iranian delegation will also be smaller than last year’s delegation, US officials said.
The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly is scheduled to bring world leaders and senior officials to New York for the high-level meetings, with the annual session running through September 28.
The decision to grant visas to the Iranian leadership comes amid continuing tensions and conflict between Washington and Tehran. Despite the strained relations, the United States is generally required under its obligations as the UN host country to facilitate access for foreign diplomats attending UN meetings.
Meanwhile, the United States has denied a visa to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his delegation for the General Assembly. The decision marks the second consecutive year that Abbas has been prevented from attending the UN gathering in person.
The US State Department said the restrictions on Palestinian officials were linked to Washington’s objections to actions by the Palestinian Authority, including pursuing cases against Israel before international tribunals. The Palestinian Authority has criticised the decision, saying such restrictions undermine diplomatic efforts and the prospects for a political solution.
