Is New York Still Suitable for Hosting the UN Headquarters?
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Synopsis
Colombian President Gustavo Petro argues that the recent U.S. decision to revoke his visa raises serious questions about New York's suitability as the host city for the United Nations headquarters. His comments come amid calls for adherence to international law and a stop to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. visa revocation raises questions about New York's role as a U.N. headquarters.
- Petro emphasizes the importance of international law.
- Protests reflect ongoing tensions regarding the Palestinian issue.
- Calls for a reassessment of U.S. foreign policy in the region.
- Petro's stance showcases the complexities of international relations.
Bogota, Sep 28 (NationPress) Colombian President Gustavo Petro stated on Saturday that the U.S. decision to revoke his visa highlights that New York may no longer be an appropriate location for the United Nations headquarters. The U.S. action, according to Petro, undermines the principle of immunity that is fundamental to the U.N., while he advocated for adherence to international law, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
On Friday, Petro participated in a pro-Palestinian protest outside the U.N. headquarters in New York, where he urged U.S. soldiers to refrain from turning their weapons against humanity.
"Disobey Trump's orders! Obey the orders of humanity!" he declared.
In reaction, the U.S. State Department stated on social media that it would revoke Petro's visa due to his "reckless and incendiary actions."
On Saturday, Petro took to social media to announce that he no longer possesses a U.S. visa, adding, "I don't care."
He noted, "There is total immunity for presidents who attend the (U.N. General) Assembly," in a post on X.
The Colombian president also criticized Washington for obstructing Palestinian representatives from participating in the U.N. General Assembly and reiterated his appeal for the global community to intervene in the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
"Denying entry to the Palestinian Authority and revoking my visa for urging the U.S. and Israeli military not to support genocide, which is a crime against humanity, clearly indicates that the U.S. government no longer adheres to international law," he stated.
Petro further called on U.S. President Donald Trump to rethink his backing of Israel's military operations in Gaza, asserting that the United States cannot attain greatness "by killing defenseless babies."
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the complexity of international diplomacy. President Petro's comments reflect a growing discontent with U.S. policies, particularly in relation to global humanitarian crises. While his stance may resonate with some, it also raises questions about the future of international cooperation and the United Nations' role in promoting peace and security.
NationPress
28/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Colombian President Gustavo Petro say about New York?
Gustavo Petro stated that the U.S. decision to revoke his visa suggests that New York may no longer be suitable to host the United Nations headquarters.
What was the reason behind the visa revocation?
The U.S. revoked Petro's visa citing his 'reckless and incendiary actions' during a pro-Palestinian demonstration.
What did Petro urge U.S. soldiers to do?
He urged U.S. soldiers not to turn their weapons against humanity and to disobey orders that promote violence.
How did Petro react to the visa revocation?
Petro expressed indifference to the visa revocation, stating 'I don't care' and emphasized the immunity that should be granted to presidents attending the U.N. General Assembly.
What broader issue did Petro highlight?
He criticized the U.S. for blocking Palestinian representatives from attending the U.N. General Assembly and called for global intervention in the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
