US announces visa sanctions on Palestinian officials

NHK

4 days ago

The United States says it is imposing sanctions on Palestinian Authority officials and members of the Palestinian Liberation Organization, denying them visas for travel to the country.
The US State Department made the announcement on Thursday.
The State Department accused the two organizations of "taking actions to internationalize its conflict with Israel such as through the International Criminal Court." It also said they continue to support terrorism, including incitement and glorification of violence in textbooks.
The step shows strong US support for Israel and contrasts with moves by France, Britain and Canada, which indicate they will recognize the State of Palestine.
There is still no end in sight to the fighting in the Gaza Strip.
The announcement does not specify who would be subject to the sanctions.
US media say it is not yet clear whether Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and other officials would be barred from entering the US for a United Nations General Assembly meeting in September.
The US is required by an agreement with the UN not to impose any impediments to the transit of representatives of UN members to its headquarters.
Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General Farhan Haq told NHK that "We expect the US as host country to live up to its obligations" under the agreement.