UN Secretary-General Calls for US to Reverse Visa Denial to Palestinian President Abbas
What happened
On September 18, 2026, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on the United States to reverse its visa denial to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
The Context
- Visa restrictions: The US has extended visa bans on Palestinian Authority and PLO officials since 2025, citing non-compliance with commitments and security concerns.
- UN obligations: The 1947 UN Headquarters Agreement requires the US to facilitate access for diplomats, although exceptions can be made for security reasons.
- Video participation: Following the visa denial, the UN General Assembly voted 152-3 to allow Abbas to address the assembly via video for the second consecutive year.
The Number
— This is the number of votes in favor of allowing Palestinian video participation in the UN General Assembly, highlighting significant international support for diplomatic engagement.
Takeaway
As diplomatic tensions continue, expect ongoing discussions around visa policies and their implications for international relations.
Arabic-language coverage of international news and geopolitics.
"RT Arabic is a Russian state-funded outlet often criticized for promoting Kremlin-aligned narratives."
— A47 Editor
أمين عام الأمم المتحدة يحث أمريكا على التراجع عن رفض منح الرئيس الفلسطيني تأشيرة دخول
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged the United States to reverse its decision to deny Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas a visa, stating that this decision could undermine the proper functioning of the organization.
English-language news from Qatar covering domestic and regional affairs.
"Gulf Times reflects Qatari perspectives on regional developments."
— A47 Editor
UN chief 'deeply regrets' US visa refusal to Abbas for annual meeting
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep regret over the United States' decision to deny a visa to Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas for the second consecutive year, preventing his attendance at the annual meeting. This refusal highlights ...
Jordanian news and regional updates.
"Roya News is a Jordanian outlet focused on breaking news and local affairs."
— A47 Editor
غوتيريش يعرب عن أسفه العميق لرفض واشنطن حضور الرئيس الفلسطيني اجتماعات الأمم المتحدة
UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep regret on Friday over the United States' refusal to allow the Palestinian president to attend UN meetings. This decision highlights ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Palestinian leadership, imp...