Story perspectives

UN Approves Abbas' Virtual Address Amid US Visa Denial

9/21/2025

Center

Abbas Addresses UN

The UN General Assembly voted 145-5 to allow Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the meeting via video due to a US visa denial.
The resolution enables Abbas and other Palestinian officials to participate virtually in UN events if unable to travel to the US.
US officials stress accountability for Palestinian leadership, citing non-compliance with the Oslo Accords as the reason for the visa denial.
France and Saudi Arabia are advocating for a phased plan for Palestinian statehood, opposed by the US, which argues it empowers Hamas.
Critics claim the US actions violate the Host Country agreement, which ensures access for foreign diplomats.

Left

Palestinian Students Stranded

Palestinian students in Gaza face visa suspensions, obstructing their education in the US due to a new Trump administration policy.
Many, including Leila and Maryam, are accepted into US universities but remain trapped amid conflict.
The State Department cites national security for halting visa processing for Palestinian Authority passport holders.
Students endure dangerous conditions to access the internet for applications.
Critics claim US actions violate international obligations and show bias against Palestinians.

History

Historical Context

In 1975, the UN General Assembly passed Resolution 3379, equating Zionism with racism, reflecting deep-rooted tensions between Israel and Palestine. The US, under President Gerald Ford, opposed this resolution, showcasing its support for Israel. Today, the US visa denial for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas highlights ongoing exclusion and accountability issues, complicating the future of Palestinian statehood amid international calls for a phased approach.

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Abbas Addresses UN

The UN General Assembly voted 145-5 to allow Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the meeting via video due to a US visa denial.
The resolution enables Abbas and other Palestinian officials to participate virtually in UN events if unable to travel to the US.
US officials stress accountability for Palestinian leadership, citing non-compliance with the Oslo Accords as the reason for the visa denial.
France and Saudi Arabia are advocating for a phased plan for Palestinian statehood, opposed by the US, which argues it empowers Hamas.
Critics claim the US actions violate the Host Country agreement, which ensures access for foreign diplomats.

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