“It is in our national interest to impose consequences and hold the PLO and PA accountable for glorifying terrorism,” the State Department said.
By United with Israel Staff
The United States has extended visa sanctions against senior Palestinian Authority officials and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization, accusing the Palestinian leadership of failing to meet commitments to Washington and continuing to glorify terrorism.
The State Department announced the decision Wednesday night, just days before world leaders are set to gather in New York for the United Nations General Assembly.
The restrictions will again prevent PA President Mahmoud Abbas from traveling to New York for the gathering, marking the second consecutive year Washington has denied him a visa to attend in person. Last year, Abbas instead addressed the General Assembly remotely.
In its announcement, the State Department said it had reported to Congress that the PLO and PA had “once again” failed to fulfill commitments established under two U.S. laws, the PLO Commitments Compliance Act of 1989 and the Middle East Peace Commitments Act of 2002.
Washington cited Palestinian efforts to pursue action against Israel through international bodies, including the International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice, as well as attempts to obtain recognition of a Palestinian state outside direct negotiations.
The State Department also accused the Palestinian leadership of continuing to provide stipends to terrorists and their families and of glorifying terrorists and acts of terrorism in official statements and school textbooks.
“As a consequence of their failure to reform, contrary to their commitments to the United States, and their ongoing activities that undermine the prospects for peace, the United States will extend sanctions that deny visas to PLO members and PA officials,” the department said.
Washington said the measures are being imposed under the Middle East Peace Commitments Act.
“It is in our national interest to impose consequences and hold the PLO and PA accountable for glorifying terrorism,” the State Department added.
The restrictions do not completely bar Palestinian representation at the United Nations. Washington maintained an existing waiver for personnel officially assigned to the PLO Observer Mission to the UN, allowing accredited Palestinian diplomats already in New York to continue their work.
The UN General Assembly is expected to consider allowing Abbas to address the gathering remotely again this year.
The renewed sanctions come as the Trump administration has increasingly confronted international legal action targeting Israel. Washington has imposed sanctions on International Criminal Court officials and has opposed the court’s proceedings involving Israeli leaders.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!