US authorities have imposed new restrictions on the Iranian delegation arriving in New York, specifically banning them from shopping at luxury boutiques and wholesale stores, Al Arabiya reported.
According to US State Department Deputy Press Secretary Tommy Pigott, this move is part of a policy of maximum pressure on the Iranian leadership.
“In Iran, the clergy spends enormous amounts of money abroad, while the country’s population faces poverty, crumbling infrastructure, and water and electricity shortages,” Pigott stated.
The delegation’s travel was also restricted: previously, delegates were able to move freely between the UN building, the Iranian mission, the ambassador’s residence, and John F. Kennedy International Airport. Now their routes are significantly restricted.
“The safety of Americans remains our top priority,” Pigott emphasized.
A State Department spokesperson noted that the decision was made directly by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.