U.S. Bars Iranian UN Delegates from Luxury Shopping, Limits Movement in New York

New York, USA — The United States has tightened restrictions on the movement and privileges of Iran’s delegation to the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), barring them from shopping at wholesale clubs and purchasing luxury goods while in New York.

The move, announced this week, is part of Washington’s broader “maximum pressure” campaign against Tehran. U.S. officials said the sanctions aim to prevent Iranian elites from enjoying shopping sprees in New York while ordinary Iranians face worsening poverty, collapsing infrastructure, and shortages of water and electricity.

Under the order, members of the Iranian delegation are confined to travel routes strictly necessary for official UN business at the UN headquarters in Manhattan. They are prohibited from moving freely across New York City or using the trip to obtain goods unavailable to the Iranian public.

“America’s security remains our top priority,” said Secretary Rubio in a statement. “We will not allow the Iranian regime to exploit UNGA as cover to travel freely in New York to advance its terrorist agenda.”

The U.S. stressed that the action is designed to support the Iranian people by holding regime leaders accountable. “By denying regime officials access to luxury shopping and wholesale stores, we are sending a clear message,” the statement added. “When the United States says it stands with the people of Iran, we mean it.”

Officials emphasized that the restrictions reflect Washington’s continued solidarity with Iranians demanding accountability and a better life under their government.