US Visa Ban on Palestinian Leaders Sparks Major Diplomatic Row with Europe

The United States revoked visas for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and 80 officials. The move prevents them from attending the UN General Assembly in New York. It has triggered immediate and strong criticism from European allies.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision on Friday. He cited national security concerns and alleged terror links. The action directly impacts next month’s high-level diplomatic gathering.

European Leaders Unite in Condemnation of US Move

European capitals quickly voiced their disapproval. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez led the criticism. He called the US decision “unjust” in a public statement.

Sanchez spoke directly with President Abbas. He assured him of Madrid’s support. Sanchez stated Palestine has a right to be heard at the UN.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also responded. She urged the US to reconsider its position. Kallas referenced existing UN headquarters agreements.

France joined the chorus of dissent. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for no restrictions on UNGA access. France recently announced plans to recognize Palestine.

Legal and Diplomatic Repercussions of the Visa Decision

The Palestinian Authority condemned the US action. It called the visa ban a clear violation of international law. It also cited the UN Headquarters Agreement.

President Abbas is a veteran 89-year-old leader. He has addressed the General Assembly many times. His absence would mark a significant shift.

Presidential spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh warned of consequences. He said the decision increases tension and escalation. The PA is contacting Arab and foreign countries to resolve the issue.

The US State Department has not provided detailed evidence. The broad visa revocation affects a large delegation. It occurs amid already strained Israeli-Palestinian relations.

The US visa ban on Palestinian leaders represents a major diplomatic escalation. It has united European nations in rare criticism of Washington. This decision will likely dominate discussions at the upcoming UN General Assembly.

Thought you’d like to know

Why did the US revoke the visas?

The US cited national security interests. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also mentioned alleged terror links. No specific public evidence was provided.

How many officials were affected?

The US revoked visas for President Abbas and 80 other officials. This encompasses nearly the entire Palestinian delegation to the UN General Assembly.

What was the European reaction?

Spain, France, and the EU foreign policy chief condemned the move. They called it unjust and urged the US to reconsider based on international agreements.

What is the UN Headquarters Agreement?

It is an international agreement between the UN and the US. It generally guarantees access to UN headquarters for member state representatives.

Has this happened before?

Such a broad visa ban on a recognized delegation is highly unusual. President Abbas has attended the UNGA for many years without issue.

What happens next?

The Palestinian Authority is lobbying for a reversal. Diplomatic efforts are underway with Arab and European partners to resolve the situation before the UNGA.

Sources: Associated Press, Reuters