US denies Abbas visa for UN assembly

The United States denied Abbas and accompanying Palestinian officials visas for next week’s United Nations General Assembly in New York. It extended restrictions on Palestinian Authority and PLO officials, citing unmet commitments, international legal action against Israel, and efforts to gain recognition outside negotiations. This is the second consecutive year.

• 2 consecutive yearsAbbas barred from attending in person — The restriction also applied last year.
• 1989 lawUS statute cited for restrictions — Washington cited earlier Palestinian commitments.
• 1988Earlier visa refusal for Arafat — A previous Palestinian leader faced denial.

Q1

Could Abbas address the assembly remotely?

Last year, the UN authorized Abbas to address the assembly by videoconference after the administration revoked visas for Palestinian delegation members.

Q2

What rules apply to UN hosts?

The UN Headquarters Agreement says the host country should not interfere with entry by representatives of member and observer states.

Q3

Which commitments does Washington cite?

Washington cited the PLO Commitments Compliance Act and Middle East Peace Commitments Act, saying Palestinian actions conflict with earlier undertakings.

Q4

What earlier precedent is relevant?

In 1988, Washington also refused a visa to PLO leader Yasser Arafat, preventing his planned General Assembly address in New York.