WANA (Sep 05) – On the eve of the annual United Nations General Assembly, the United States has introduced new restrictions on the delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran. These measures include tighter visa requirements, limits on the movement of Iranian diplomats in New York, and even restrictions on access to wholesale stores such as Costco and Sam’s Club.

 

Analysts view these actions as part of Washington’s ongoing hostile policies toward Iran, describing them as a clear attempt to exert additional pressure in the diplomatic arena. Iranian diplomats in New York have already been subject to severe travel restrictions in the past.

 

According to internal U.S. State Department documents, delegations from other countries, including Sudan, Zimbabwe, and even Brazil, may also face similar restrictions, though a final decision has not yet been made. In contrast, the U.S. recently granted an exemption to the Syrian delegation, which observers interpret as part of Washington’s efforts to open new channels with Damascus following recent political developments there.

 

This year’s General Assembly is set to begin on September 22. As tradition dictates, the President of Brazil will deliver the opening speech, followed by the President of the United States. Political experts argue that the new restrictions illustrate Washington’s use of the UN—an institution meant to symbolize dialogue and cooperation among nations—as a tool for political pressure against Iran. They contend that such measures run counter to the principles of the UN Charter and demonstrate that U.S. anti-Iranian policies now extend beyond economic sanctions into the realm of international diplomacy.

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