AMMAN — The ministerial committee assigned by the Joint Arab-Islamic Extraordinary Summit has expressed its “deep regret” over the US Department of State’s recent decision to deny entry visas to the Palestinian delegation scheduled to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September.

 

The United States said Friday it will deny visas to members of the Palestinian Authority to attend next month's UN General Assembly, where France is leading a push to recognize a Palestinian state.

 

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, a veteran 89-year-old leader who once had cordial relations with Washington, had planned to attend the UN meeting, the Palestinian ambassador to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour, told AFP.

 

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said it was "important" for all states and observers, which includes the Palestinians, to be represented at a summit scheduled for the day before the General Assembly begins.

 

In a statement on Saturday, the committee called on Washington to reconsider and reverse its decision, underscoring the importance of hnouring commitments under the United Nations Headquarters Agreement.

 

The committee emphasised the critical need for dialogue and diplomacy, urging the US to support efforts for peace rather than exacerbate tensions.

 

The committee also reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian National Authority, led by President Mahmoud Abbas, highlighting Ramallah-based commitment to peace and its ongoing reform efforts.

 

The statement stressed that the Palestinian leadership's dedication to combating violence, extremism, and terrorism must be acknowledged, especially amid the escalating violence faced by Palestinians.

 

The committee warned that weakening the Palestinian Authority would undermine the broader peace process, potentially fueling further violence and prolonging the ongoing conflict in the region.