The U.S. visa application of Mahmoud Abbas was allegedly rejected ahead of next week’s United Nations General Assembly in New York. Applications from some Palestinian officials who were expected to attend the meeting were also rejected.
The Times of Israel cited a U.S. official and a Palestinian official in its report. The outlet said Abbas would address the General Assembly by video conference for the second consecutive time.
Visa decision cited Section 212(a)(3)(B)
A Palestinian official said their visa application was rejected under Section 212(a)(3)(B) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act, which bars visas for individuals linked to terrorist activities or terrorist organizations.
The U.S. State Department announced that sanctions preventing visas from being issued to Palestinian Authority officials would be extended. The department cited a lack of reforms, conduct inconsistent with commitments made to the United States and continued activities that undermine prospects for peace among the reasons for the decision.
Abbas addressed the General Assembly by video message last year
Because the U.S. administration did not issue him a visa, Abbas could not attend last year’s United Nations General Assembly and delivered his speech by video message. Abbas is also expected to deliver this year’s address by video conference.