US Allows Iranian Delegation to UN Assembly Under Restrictions

The United States will permit Iran's central delegation to attend the UN General Assembly's high-level debate in New York, but will impose movement and purchasing restrictions on its members, the US State Department announced Thursday. A State Department spokesperson stated that the delegation's entry is in line with US obligations as the host country of the UN headquarters. However, Washington clarified that their participation will not be without limitations.

Members of the Iranian delegation will face restrictions on their movement within the United States and will be prohibited from purchasing luxury and other goods, according to the US administration's policy. The State Department also noted that this year's delegation will be smaller than last year's.

These restrictions come ahead of the UN General Assembly week, where President Donald Trump is expected to meet with Gulf leaders to discuss further actions against Iran. The decision follows a period of heightened tension between Washington and Tehran.

The restrictions are not unprecedented. Last year, the US also imposed strict limitations on the Iranian delegation, confining their movement to activities related to their official UN duties and barring them from wholesale stores and luxury purchases.

The 81st UN General Assembly is set to open next week in New York, with Iran and the Middle East conflict expected to be central themes. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is among the expected speakers.