The Trump administration is considering banning Iranian diplomats visiting New York during September as part of the 80th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly from wholesale stores such as Costco.
Restrictions for foreign diplomats
This potential measure is part of the crackdown on visas, access to certain infrastructures and the movement of foreign diplomats planned by the Trump administration.
Cancellation of visas for Palestinian representatives
Last week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio had already announced the cancellation of visas for Palestinian diplomats and their president, Mahmoud Abbas. However, this decision runs counter to the UN-US agreement, which commits Washington not to hinder the travel of delegates from member states and non-member observers.
A State Department memo consulted by the AP
According to a State Department memo consulted by the Associated Press (AP), the Trump administration would prohibit Iranian diplomats from accessing members-only department stores, such as Costco and Sam's Club, unless they obtain authorization from the State Department. The memo also states that Washington would consider imposing "terms and conditions" on memberships to these stores for all foreign diplomats present in the United States.
Bulk racing in the face of sanctions
According to the AP, these wholesale stores are very popular with Iranian diplomats. They buy large quantities of products that are unavailable to them at home. For decades, Iranians have had to contend with a vast array of US sanctions, often depriving them of everyday consumer goods.
Already subject to travel restrictions
Iranian delegates are already subject to travel restrictions in New York, as AP points out. Last year, the American authorities imposed particularly strict restrictions on their delegation, allowing them to travel only between their hotel and the UN headquarters.between their hotel and the two-block UN headquarters, as well as to the airport.
Iran, Sudan and Zimbabwe targeted
According to the State Department document on which the AP relies, travel restrictions could be imposed on delegations from Iran, Sudan and Zimbabwe.
Brazil in the sights of the Trump administration
New restrictions, the nature of which remains unclear, could also apply to Brazil, which usually occupies a place of honor at such a UN gathering. Traditionally, the President of Brazil gives the opening speech at the UN General Assembly, followed by the President of the United States.
Proposals under study
The proposals are still being studied. They could change between now and the Annual General Meeting on September 22.