US to allow Iran delegation to attend UN meetings in New York as war passes half-year mark

The US government has granted visas to Iranian officials so they can travel to the UN General Assembly in New York next week, as the war between the two countries grinds into its seventh month.

The BBC understands the core delegation permitted to attend includes Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

A spokesman for the US State Department confirmed the decision on Thursday, saying that the delegation will be placed under travel restrictions and will be banned from purchasing certain American products.

The move comes as the war shows no sign of ending. Since it began in February, it has driven up global energy prices, and expanded into neighbouring countries.

"Consistent with our host country obligations, the core delegation from the Iranian regime will be able to attend UN General Assembly High Level Week," a spokesman for the US State Department told the BBC.

"The delegation will be under travel restrictions and will face prohibitions on the purchase of luxury and other goods per our policy. The delegation is smaller than last year."

Last year, diplomats attending from Iran were banned from shopping at wholesale stores like Costco. They also were required to seek permission from the US before purchasing luxury goods, including jewellery, alcohol and cars.

The 81st session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) is currently underway. The General Debate - the centrepiece of the annual event - is due to begin on Tuesday.