WANA (Sep 23) – Despite consistently claiming to support freedom of expression and the free flow of information, the United States has refused to issue visas for most members of the Iranian president’s media and communications team, who were due to cover his trip to New York for the United Nations General Assembly.

 

Under this restrictive decision, unlike in previous years, only two media staff members have been granted visas, leaving them solely responsible for covering the president’s extensive schedule and news during the visit.

 

Reports indicate that none of the presidential office’s photographers or cameramen received visas. The only individuals permitted to travel are Habib Abbasi, Director General of Public Relations for the Presidential Office, and his deputy.

 

This move comes despite the fact that the presence of journalists and media staff is considered an essential part of the UN General Assembly’s mission, enabling full coverage of world leaders’ activities. Denying the Iranian media team access to this international event is seen as yet another example of the U.S.’s politicized and discriminatory behavior toward Iran—an approach that stands in clear contradiction to Washington’s professed commitment to press freedom and the principles of the United Nations.

Masoud Pezeshkian's speech at Strengthening the United Nations’ Objectives. 23 Sep 2024 / WANA News Agency

Masoud Pezeshkian’s speech at Strengthening the United Nations’ Objectives. 23 Sep 2024 / WANA News Agency