EU urges US to reverse visa ban on Palestinian officials ahead of UN summit

The European Union has requested that the United States reconsider its decision to deny visas to Palestinian officials travelling to the UN General Assembly. US authorities have declined entry for Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas and other members of his delegation in advance of next week’s meeting in New York. The EU has expressed concern that this decision may have implications for the United States’ responsibilities as host of the United Nations. Mr Abbas is expected to address the assembly virtually following a vote permitting his appearance by video.