Summary
The United States has suspended most visitor visas for Palestinians holding Palestinian passports. This decision affects those from areas such as Gaza and the West Bank. The U.S. Department of State states it is complying with national security requirements.
Key Facts
- The U.S. has denied most visitor visas for Palestinians with Palestinian passports.
- This decision impacts those from Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
- The U.S. Department of State suggests the measure is for national security.
- A diplomatic cable dated 18 August instructed consular officers to refuse non-immigrant visas to eligible Palestinian passport holders.
- Palestinians applying with non-Palestinian passports are not affected.
- Palestinian officials were recently blocked from attending the UN General Assembly in New York.
- The move is part of a broader tightening of U.S. visa policies for Palestinians.
