US Blocks Abbas' UN Visit Over Palestine's 'Failed Reforms'

The United States has denied Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas an entry visa to attend the UN General Assembly in New York next week, citing his organisation's failure to reform and undermine peace prospects.

This is not the first time the US has taken such action, as it did last year under the Trump administration. The move comes amid escalating violence between Israeli settlers and Palestinians in the West Bank.

The State Department accused the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and Palestinian Authority of initiating actions at international organisations that contradict prior commitments, including seeking unilateral recognition and paying stipends to terrorists.

Washington's decision puts it at odds with countries like France, which recognised a Palestinian state at the UN last year. The move has sparked concern over the deteriorating situation in the region.