ABBAS HOPED TO ATTEND
Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas, a veteran 89-year-old leader who once had cordial relations with Washington, had planned to attend the UN meeting, according to the Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour.
Abbas’ office said it was astonished by the visa decision and argued that it violated the UN “headquarters agreement”.
Under an agreement as host of the United Nations in New York, the United States is not supposed to refuse visas for officials heading to the world body.
UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said it was “important” for all states and observers, which includes the Palestinians, to be represented at a summit scheduled for the day before the General Assembly begins.
“We obviously hope that this will be resolved,” Dujarric said.
The United States and Israel have accused France and other powers of rewarding Hamas, which launched an unprecedented attack on Israel on Oct 7, 2023, through their recognition of a Palestinian state.
French President Emmanuel Macron, exasperated by the relentless, nearly two-year Israeli offensive on Gaza in response to the attack, has argued that there can be no further delay in pushing forward a peace process.
Since his announcement, Canada and Australia also said they would recognise a Palestinian state and Britain said it would do so unless Israel agrees to a ceasefire in Gaza.
