US Denies Visas To Some Members Of Iranian President's UN Delegation

The United States has denied visas to some members of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's delegation, including members of his communications team, ahead of his scheduled address to the United Nations General Assembly this week. Iranian state media reported the decision on Monday, September 21, 2026. Iran's state news agency IRNA described the visa denial as an "unprecedented hostile move" by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. The Mehr news agency also reported the development, citing a spokesperson for the Iranian presidency. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei criticized the decision, alleging the U.S. was attempting to silence voices and restrict access to information. The U.S. State Department has authorized an Iranian delegation to travel to New York for the UN General Assembly but will impose restrictions. These measures, similar to those placed on last year's delegation, include a ban on purchasing luxury goods and certain other items during their stay. The State Department announced these restrictions on Thursday, September 18, but has not commented on the specific visa denials.