US Sanctions Palestinian Authority and PLO

The United States has imposed sanctions on officials of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), accusing them of taking steps to "internationalize the conflict with Israel."

According to the State Department, the sanctions were imposed because of appeals to the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice, as well as continued support for terrorism.

This move comes as countries like France consider recognizing a Palestinian state, sparking a reaction from Israel and the US, who believe that such a move would reward Hamas.

The sanctions include visa denials for members of the two organizations. Washington accuses the PLO and the PA of "continuing to support terrorism through incitement and glorification of violence."

The US State Department also denounces the PLO and the PA for actions in international organizations that undermine previous commitments.

The Palestinian Authority, headed by President Mahmoud Abbas, governs the West Bank. The PLO was founded in 1964.

Source: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ