US Approves Entry for Top Iranian Officials Ahead of UNGA

The United States has approved visas for a senior Iranian delegation to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York next week, despite the ongoing war between Washington and Tehran.

The delegation is expected to include Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and essential members of their staff, according to a source familiar with the matter.

A US State Department spokesperson said the decision was consistent with the country’s obligations as host of the United Nations. However, the Iranian delegation will be smaller than in previous years and subject to tighter travel restrictions and limits on luxury goods purchases.

The 81st UN General Assembly is taking place amid continuing tensions between the United States and Iran, with uncertainty surrounding efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and resume negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.

The disruption around the strategic waterway has contributed to rising global oil prices, as the Strait of Hormuz carries a significant share of the world’s seaborne energy supplies.

US President Donald Trump has said the conflict could be nearing an end and has claimed that his administration has held direct talks with Iranian officials. Fighting, however, continues in parts of the region, including Yemen.

The decision to grant visas to Iranian leaders comes as the Trump administration has again denied entry to Palestinian Authority and Palestine Liberation Organization officials, including President Mahmoud Abbas, ahead of the UNGA.

The annual UN gathering will take place against the backdrop of several major international crises, including the Russia-Ukraine war, continuing instability in the Middle East and economic pressures affecting countries around the world.

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