Ernst Calls on Biden-Harris Admin to Deny Evil Dictators’ Visa Requests

WASHINGTON – Ahead of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in New York City next month, Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) joined her colleagues in urging President Biden to refuse visas for the oppressive dictators from Iran, Cuba, and Venezuela who threaten America’s national security. 

In their letter, the senators point out that the United States must prevent the UN General Assembly from becoming a stage for the most evil leaders on Earth to gain credibility and promote their dangerous views that pose significant threats to the national security of the United States and our allies.

“The presence of several global leaders at this assembly would raise serious security issues for the United States and our allies. Specifically, the participation of Khamenei-installed President Masoud Pezeshkian, Cuban dictator Miguel Díaz-Canel, and the narcodictator of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro,” the senators wrote.

“While the UN General Assembly is a forum for diplomatic negotiations and dialogue, the United States has historically taken principled stands against welcoming foreign leaders who threaten our values and interests to participate in this event on our soil,” the senators continued.

“Denying entry to the dictators and madmen would reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of freedom and democracy while sending a clear message that we stand firmly against oppressive regimes that threaten our national security,” the senators concluded.

Read the full letter here. 

Background:

Last year, Ernst slammed President Biden for providing a visa to the “Butcher of Tehran” on U.S. soil.

Ernst also introduced the PUNISH Act to enforce “maximum pressure” sanctions on Iran until the State Department can certify that Iran has not supported any attempt in the last five years to kill a U.S. citizen or a former or current U.S. official.

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