Netanyahu to Visit SpaceX in Texas En Route to UN General Assembly

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to make a working visit to SpaceX facilities in Texas on his way to the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week. During this stopover, Netanyahu is also expected to meet with billionaire Elon Musk.

Netanyahu's address at the UN General Assembly is slated for Thursday afternoon, U.S. time, which is 9 p.m. in Israel. The timing is intended to reach an Israeli audience, particularly in light of upcoming elections, as much as an international one.

In parallel, a diplomatic development has occurred as the U.S. State Department officially imposed sanctions on Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas and his delegation. These sanctions, due to their support for terrorism, incitement, and appeals to international tribunals, will prevent their entry into the U.S., forcing Abbas to deliver his address via video link.

Additionally, efforts are being considered to arrange a meeting between Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the General Assembly, though its realization remains uncertain. This comes despite a threat from New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to attempt to prevent Netanyahu's arrival in the city.