Trump-Era Restrictions Reimposed: Iranian Diplomats Barred from Costco and Wholesale Clubs
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Iranian diplomats stationed in the United States, particularly those representing their country at the United Nations, are now prohibited from obtaining memberships at wholesale club stores like costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale club, according to determinations posted online monday by the U.S.Department of State. The restrictions, initially enacted during the Trump management and recently reinstated, also prevent them from acquiring items through any means from these stores.
The move, signed by Clifton Seagroves, head of the Office of Foreign Missions, on September 16 and 18, reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. It requires Iranian diplomats and their dependents to seek approval from the State Department before joining wholesale clubs or making purchases from them.
Beyond wholesale club access, Iranian diplomats face other limitations. They must also receive permission to purchase luxury items exceeding $1,000 in value and vehicles valued at more than $60,000.The State Department defines “luxury goods” as including watches, leather and silk apparel, footwear, fur, handbags, jewelry, precious metals, electronics, recreational sports equipment, musical instruments, cigarettes, cigars, wine, spirits, and beer.
These restrictions are not unique to Iranian diplomats. Certain members of foreign missions from Belarus, China, Cuba, Eritrea, North Korea, Russia, Syria, and Venezuela are required to obtain approval from the Office of Foreign Missions before traveling beyond a 25-mile radius of New York City’s Columbus Circle.
The State Department is also considering expanding these rules to all foreign diplomats in the U.S., perhaps imposing terms and conditions on wholesale club memberships across the board, according to a memo obtained by the Associated Press. The reimposition of these restrictions applies year-round to Iranian diplomats at the U.N.
