US Restricts Iranian Delegation’s Movement and Spending During UN General Assembly
NEW YORK – The United States has imposed new restrictions on the iranian delegation attending the United Nations General Assembly,limiting their movement within the New York area and prohibiting all non-essential spending. The measures, announced this week, mark a significant tightening of protocols for Iranian diplomats during the annual international gathering.
Previously, Iranian delegation members were permitted to travel between United Nations headquarters, Iran‘s mission office, the residence of the Iranian ambassador to the United nations, and John F. Kennedy International Airport. These movements are now curtailed, and the delegation will be barred from making purchases beyond essential expenses. U.S. officials stated the restrictions are intended to prevent the Iranian regime from using the UN General Assembly as a platform to advance what they describe as a “terrorist agenda” and to underscore the disparity between the privileges afforded to the delegation and the conditions faced by the Iranian people.
“American security remains our top priority,” said a U.S. official, emphasizing the governance’s commitment to preventing the exploitation of UN access. “These steps send a clear message: the United States supports the Iranian people in their efforts to uphold accountability and seek a better future.”
The move comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran,and as Iran faces growing internal economic challenges. The Iranian Ministry of Foreign affairs has not yet commented on the restrictions. However, the economic situation in Iran is a key concern for the contry’s leadership, with fears of renewed protests similar to those that began in 2017, fueled by rising poverty, sanctions, mismanagement, and corruption.
Despite deep distrust of the U.S., notably stemming from the administration of former President Donald Trump, Tehran reportedly prioritizes diplomatic solutions to resolve long-standing disputes with the West regarding its nuclear programme. The U.S., along with European allies and Israel, has accused Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons development, allegations tehran consistently denies.