Overview
- Iranian diplomats and their dependents must obtain State Department approval before joining or purchasing from wholesale clubs such as Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s, according to Federal Register determinations.
- Approval is also required for luxury purchases over $1,000 and vehicles over $60,000, covering items from watches and jewelry to electronics and alcohol.
- The rules apply year-round to Iranian representatives to the United Nations, not only during the General Assembly.
- The State Department tightened movement for Iran’s delegation in New York, limiting travel to routes necessary for official business to and from UN headquarters.
- Iran is the only country named in the shopping restrictions, which were signed by Office of Foreign Missions chief Clifton Seagroves on September 16 and 18.