The European Union announced on Saturday that it is disappointed by the United States' move to lengthen the denial of entry visas for members of the Palestinian delegation expected to attend the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York. The EU statement called on Washington to reassess the measure, describing it as counter‑productive to diplomatic engagement.
According to the EU, the decision undermines the ability of Palestinian representatives to participate fully in the high‑level UN session, which convenes leaders from around the world to discuss global issues. The bloc highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue at the United Nations and suggested that the visa restrictions could hamper constructive discussions on the Israeli‑Palestinian conflict.
The United States Department of State had earlier indicated that it would continue the policy of denying visas to officials from the Palestinian Authority and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization in the run‑up to the General Assembly. The extension of these sanctions was framed as a response to concerns raised by the US government regarding the delegation's activities.
In its remarks, the EU did not specify any particular incidents prompting the US action, but reiterated its commitment to a multilateral approach to peace and security in the Middle East. The European bloc emphasized that diplomatic channels should remain open and that any restrictions on movement should be proportionate and consistent with international norms.
The United Nations has not yet commented on the visa issue, but the General Assembly is scheduled to begin later this month, with a full roster of member states expected to be present. The EU’s appeal underscores ongoing tensions between Western allies over how best to address the political status of the Palestinian territories within the broader framework of international diplomacy.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Middle East Eye — original source: https://www.middleeasteye.net/live-blog/live-blog-update/eu-says-it-regrets-us-visa-denial-extension-palestinian-un-delegation.