Trump Could Ban Iranians from Costco Stores: Report

By Amir Daftari

In a move that underscores the Trump administration's unusual approach to diplomacy, Iranian delegates to the United Nations may soon need special permission just to fill a shopping cart at Costco or Sam's Club.

The proposal, detailed in an internal U.S. State Department memo seen by The Associated Press, is part of a broader crackdown on visas and foreign diplomat movement, following the recent denial of entry to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his delegation.

Newsweek has contacted the State Department and Iran's Foreign Ministry for comment.

Why It Matters

If enacted, these measures would mark a sharp escalation in how the U.S. regulates foreign diplomats' movements, particularly those attending the United Nations General Assembly. Countries like Iran, Sudan, Zimbabwe, and potentially Brazil could see their delegations face unprecedented limits on travel, shopping, and other day-to-day activities in New York.

The restrictions could reshape the diplomatic landscape at the U.N., signaling a broader U.S. strategy to exert pressure on nations with strained relations while potentially complicating interactions during one of the world's most high-profile international gatherings.

What To Know

Iranian diplomats already face strict limitations in New York, but one proposal under consideration would require them to obtain State Department approval before shopping at wholesale retailers, a popular practice for buying bulk goods not easily available in Iran.

According to the memo, these stores have long been a convenient way for Iranian officials to access products at lower prices and potentially send them home. While the timeline for such a restriction is unclear, the State Department is reportedly exploring rules that could extend similar requirements to all foreign diplomats with memberships at large U.S. wholesale clubs.

Brazil and the U.N. Spotlight

Brazil's delegation could also face new restrictions, though details remain uncertain. Traditionally, Brazil's president delivers the opening speech at the General Assembly, followed by the U.S. president.

Any constraints could affect lower-level delegates, though it is unclear whether President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva himself would be impacted. The proposal comes amid tensions between Trump and Lula, stemming from the U.S. president's objections to legal proceedings against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a political ally of Trump.

Sudan and Zimbabwe in Question

The memo also identifies Sudan and Zimbabwe as potential targets for restrictions, though no specific measures were outlined. Observers say any limitations could mirror those considered for Iran or Brazil, affecting mobility, access to facilities, and potentially visa approvals for diplomatic staff.

Syria Granted a Waiver

In contrast, Syria will see fewer limitations. Members of the Syrian delegation have received a waiver from longstanding UN travel restrictions, signaling the Trump administration's interest in normalizing ties with the nation following Bashar al-Assad's ouster.

The waiver reflects a strategic pivot to integrate Syria into broader Middle East diplomacy, highlighting selective leniency within the administration's approach to foreign delegations.

What Happens Next

The proposals remain under consideration and could change before the General Assembly convenes on September 22. The administration is reviewing the measures as part of a broader assessment of visas and foreign diplomat access in New York, a process that could redefine the scope of international engagement in the city for years to come.