The United States has denied visas to certain members of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's communications team, Iranian state media reported on Monday, 21 September 2026. This move effectively rules them out of attending the UN General Assembly this week. According to Iranian state news agency Irna, the US government's decision is described as an "unprecedented hostile move."
The Iranian presidency's spokesperson confirmed the news, which was also reported by the Mehr news agency. The US authorities had previously limited visas for Iranian journalists attending last year's UN General Assembly to just three. The restrictions do not only affect press access but also extend to other areas, including the movement of the Iranian delegation in New York.
While President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and other key members of the official delegation were granted entry visas, the US imposed restrictions on their movement in New York. The Iranian officials stated that these restrictions limit their access to areas in and around the UN headquarters. Additionally, they face limitations on accessing local services and businesses.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei criticized the US measures, describing them as "crude propaganda" and "theatrical." The US decision comes amid its close alliance with Israel, which has faced international isolation over its actions in Gaza. This move is part of a broader effort by the US to restrict visas for Iranian officials and their allies.
The US denial of visas for the Iranian communications team follows a similar decision last week to deny visas to a high-level Palestinian delegation attending the UN General Assembly. This marks the second consecutive year that the US has taken this stance. The restrictions reflect a continued strain in US relations with both Iran and Palestine.
The Iranian President's communications team is not the only group affected by US visa restrictions. The US Treasury chief recently announced that Iran airlines would be "shut down" by 23 September. These measures indicate a further escalation in tensions between the US and Iran, with significant implications for international diplomacy.
The US restrictions on Iranian officials' movement and access to services in New York highlight the complexities of international diplomacy. Egypt and other nations have been pushing for de-escalation and a Gaza settlement in UNGA meetings. The situation remains tense, with multiple nations involved in diplomatic efforts to address the ongoing conflicts.
Key points
- The US has refused to issue visas for Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's communications team.
- The restrictions extend beyond press access and limit the Iranian delegation's movement in New York.
- The US decision reflects its close alliance with Israel and ongoing tensions with Iran.
