UNGA Votes 145-5 Allow Abbas Virtual Address After US Visa Revocation

The United Nations General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to allow Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address its annual meeting of world leaders virtually after the United States revoked his visa, with the motion passing 145-5 and six abstentions. Abbas had intended to attend a meeting organized by France and Saudi Arabia aimed at advancing a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, supported by countries including France, the UK, Canada, and Australia, who plan to recognize a Palestinian state. The United States and Israel oppose these efforts, arguing that the promise of statehood has emboldened Hamas and complicated ceasefire negotiations in the Gaza Strip. The Trump administration revoked visas for around 80 Palestinian officials, including Abbas, accusing them of undermining peace efforts, which has drawn widespread backlash and was deemed a violation of the UN Host Country agreement. Despite the visa ban, Abbas will participate virtually, upheld by the UNGA vote and supported by many US allies urging reconsideration of the visa restrictions. The ceasefire talks remain stalled after the Trump administration’s Mideast envoy withdrew from negotiations, and Israel’s recent military actions against Hamas leaders in Qatar have further complicated the situation.