The Trump administration has imposed new restrictions on Iranian diplomats, barring them from shopping at wholesale club stores like Costco and purchasing luxury goods in the United States without explicit permission from the State Department. The restrictions apply to Iranian diplomats based in or visiting New York, particularly those attending the United Nations General Assembly.
According to a statement from the State Department, Iranian diplomats must obtain approval to have memberships and purchase items at wholesale clubs, including Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club. Additionally, they need permission to buy luxury items valued over $1,000, such as watches, furs, and jewelry, and cars valued over $60,000.
The move is part of the Trump administration’s broader efforts to limit the movement and privileges of Iranian officials in the U.S. These restrictions are intended to prevent Iranian diplomats from accessing goods unavailable in Iran due to economic sanctions. The administration aims to send a message of support to the Iranian people, who face economic hardships.
“We will not allow the Iranian regime to allow its clerical elites to have a shopping spree in New York while the Iranian people endure poverty, crumbling infrastructure, and dire shortages of water and electricity,” State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said.
The restrictions are set to be published in the Federal Register and will apply year-round to any Iranian diplomats representing their country at the U.N.
Recent Comments