The United States has once again denied a visa to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, preventing him from attending the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This marks the second consecutive year that Abbas has been unable to participate in person, with reports indicating that he is expected to address the General Assembly virtually if permission is granted.

Ahead of the UNGA session, the US State Department announced visa sanctions against officials of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Washington stated that the PA and PLO had failed to meet obligations under US laws, accusing them of supporting actions against Israel in international courts, pursuing unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state, and violating commitments linked to previous peace agreements.

The latest move comes as the UN General Assembly prepares to discuss key issues including the Gaza war, Palestinian statehood, and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict during its high-level meetings from September 22 to 28. Despite growing international recognition of the State of Palestine by countries such as the UK, France, and Canada, the US decision is expected to add further diplomatic tension ahead of the global gathering.