The United States has announced new sanctions against officials from the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). The move comes as Washington accuses them of blocking peace efforts in the region.
According to the U.S. State Department, these individuals will be barred from obtaining U.S. visas. While no names were publicly shared, the sanctions are aimed at those believed to undermine peace negotiations.
A spokesperson explained that this action is in America's national security interest. The State Department wants to hold the PA and PLO accountable for not honoring past agreements.
Officials said both groups have worked to internationalize their conflict with Israel. This includes actions taken at the International Criminal Court, as well as continued support for terrorism.
So far, the PA and PLO have not responded to the sanctions.
The announcement comes as U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff heads to Israel to push for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2610146/middle-east