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The US has refused visas to the Palestinian delegation attending the UN General Assembly, prompting calls to move a crucial two-state solution conference from New York to Geneva. This action, impacting President Mahmoud Abbas and 80 officials, follows a similar denial to Yasser Arafat in 1988 and is unprecedented in UN history. The US cites Palestinian non-compliance with commitments and incitement to terrorism as justification. The decision jeopardizes a planned Palestinian state recognition event and Abbas's meetings with world leaders. The US claims the action is in its national security interest, though it contradicts a 1947 UN agreement granting foreign diplomats access. Concerns exist about potential visa restrictions on delegations from other countries, including Brazil.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.