US Sanctions Palestinian Authority for 'Undermining' Peace Efforts

The administration of United States President Donald Trump has announced sanctions against members of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), accusing them of supporting "terrorism" and seeking to destabilize peace efforts.

- TDG NETWORK

Thursday's announcement from the US Department of State denies visas to members of either organization.

"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 announcement read.

Both the PA and PLO serve as representatives for the Palestinian people, pushing for the recognition of a Palestinian state on the international stage.

But the State Department said it reported to Congress that the groups had violated international agreements, including the Middle East Peace Commitments Act of 2002.

Specifically, the State Department denounced the PA and PLO for seeking to "internationalize its conflict with Israel" by seeking relief at the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.

It also accused the PA and PLO of "continuing to support terrorism including incitement and glorification of violence" and "providing payments and benefits in support of terrorism to Palestinian terrorists and their families".