US Pressures Palestinian Authority to Withdraw UN Vice-Presidency Bid
US puts pressure on Palestinian leaders to withdraw bid for UN vice-presidency role
Image: Theguardiantheguardian
The United States has pressured the Palestinian Authority to withdraw its bid for a UN General Assembly vice-presidency, fearing it could allow Palestinians to lead significant discussions on the Middle East. A state department cable warned of consequences if the PA does not comply by May 22, highlighting concerns over US-Palestinian relations.
- 01The US state department cable explicitly threatened consequences if the Palestinian Authority does not withdraw its bid by May 22.
- 02The Palestinian Authority's diplomat, Riyad Mansour, previously withdrew from the general assembly presidency after US lobbying, indicating a shift in their engagement strategy.
- 03The vice-presidency role could enable Palestinians to preside over key sessions regarding the Middle East during the UN General Assembly.
- 04The US warned that the PA's candidacy undermines President Trump's Comprehensive Plan for Gaza reconstruction.
- 05The cable mentioned the potential for the US to revoke visas for Palestinian officials as a consequence of not withdrawing the candidacy.
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The United States has exerted pressure on the Palestinian Authority (PA) to withdraw its bid for a vice-presidency role in the United Nations General Assembly, fearing that this position could enable Palestinians to lead significant discussions on Middle Eastern issues. A state department cable, dated May 19, instructed the US embassy in Jerusalem to formally protest the PA's candidacy, demanding withdrawal by May 22, and warned that there would be consequences for non-compliance. The cable emphasized that the role, while less prominent than the presidency, could still allow Palestinians to oversee crucial sessions related to the Middle East during the upcoming UN General Assembly. The US has previously engaged in lobbying efforts, including persuading Palestinian diplomat Riyad Mansour to withdraw from the race for general assembly president earlier this year. The state department expressed that the PA's current bid undermines the Trump administration's Comprehensive Plan for Gaza, which aims for a US-led reconstruction of the region. Additionally, the cable hinted at possible repercussions, including the revocation of visas for Palestinian officials, should the PA fail to comply with US demands.
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The pressure from the US could significantly affect the Palestinian Authority's diplomatic strategies and revenue streams, as the PA relies heavily on funds that are currently withheld by Israel.
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