US to deny visas to Palestinian officials
The United States is planning to deny visas to several Palestinian officials in retaliation for refusing to renew a security pact with Israel, according to multiple sources. The Palestinian officials have been identified as responsible for the Palestinian Authority's decision not to renew the agreement, which was a major blow to Israeli Prime Minister Benny Gantz, who had made the renewal a key part of his campaign. The US State Department declined to comment on the visa decision, although sources familiar with the matter said that multiple Palestinian officials would be affected. It is not known if the move will affect Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who has been critical of Israel during his tenure.
