Washington Restricts Movements of Iranian Diplomats in Shopping

The U.S. State Department has imposed new restrictions on the shopping activities of Iranian diplomats and their families residing in New York, including members of Iran's permanent mission to the United Nations.

According to an official document set to be published in the U.S. Federal Register, Iranian diplomats are now required to obtain prior approval from the U.S. State Department before participating in or shopping at wholesale stores such as Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club.

The decision also mandates that they coordinate with the department before purchasing luxury goods, such as fur and jewelry, considering any violation as "an illegal provision of facilities" to a foreign mission.

The document confirmed that those who comply with the rules and act "in good faith" will not face any legal liability.

It is noted that Costco is one of the largest wholesale chains in the world and ranks fifth among American retailers in terms of sales volume.