US Imposes Sanctions on Palestinian Authority and PLO Officials

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

Washington, D.C. — The United States has imposed targeted sanctions on officials of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), accusing both groups of actions that obstruct Middle East peace initiatives.

According to a statement released by the US State Department, the measures include visa restrictions that bar sanctioned individuals from traveling to the United States.

“It is in our national security interests to impose consequences and hold the PLO and PA accountable for not complying with their commitments and undermining the prospects for peace,” the department said.

The latest sanctions mark a continuation of Washington’s hardline stance on Palestinian leadership. Earlier this year, the US cut funding to the PA’s security services in February and shut down the Office of Palestinian Affairs in March — moves widely criticized as attempts to marginalize Palestinian voices in US diplomacy.

These steps reflect growing US frustration with the PA and PLO, whom Washington accuses of resisting constructive engagement in peace-building efforts with Israel.

The sanctions drew sharp criticism from Palestinian officials and international observers, who say the measures are punitive and counterproductive.

“The United States is penalizing Palestinian institutions rather than engaging in dialogue. This further erodes trust and damages prospects for a fair peace process,” said a senior Palestinian diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Analysts argue that the sanctions risk further isolating Palestinian leaders at a time when diplomatic engagement is critical to easing regional tensions.

The Trump administration insists the sanctions are a strategic tool to enforce accountability and reinvigorate the peace process. However, critics say the actions reflect a one-sided approach that undermines Washington’s ability to serve as a neutral mediator.

While no additional sanctions have been announced yet, State Department sources suggest further actions could follow if the PA and PLO do not align with US-backed peace proposals.

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