UN expert criticizes US sanctions as excessive for those who speak out against Israel.
In a recent development underscoring the complexities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, United Nations expert Francesca Albanese has expressed strong opposition to the sanctions imposed on her by the United States. Albanese, who is the UN’s special rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territory, described the sanctions as “obscene,” asserting that they are a retaliatory measure for her calls for justice amid ongoing violence in Gaza.
In an interview with ZezapTV, Albanese emphasized her commitment to advocating for peace and the rule of international law, despite the pressures exerted by the U.S. government. She stated that the sanctions, which were announced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, were reminiscent of intimidation tactics. Albanese asserted that such punitive measures might mitigate discussions only if people feel threatened into silence.
“My quest for justice remains unyielding,” Albanese remarked. She reiterated her critical stance toward what she identifies as acts of genocide by Israel, characterizing them as violations of both human rights and international law. In her view, the justification for the sanctions lies within her responsibilities to seek accountability for these actions, which affects not only Palestinians but resonates globally, calling into question ethical considerations of governance and justice.
Albanese further contended that the ongoing humanitarian crisis is exacerbated not solely by territorial ambitions but also by corporations that profit from the conflict. Last week, she released a detailed report highlighting the companies implicated in facilitating the displacement of Palestinians, shedding light on the broader implications of these actions.
The sanctions against Albanese have prompted responses from various UN officials, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s spokesperson. Guterres’s representative denounced the U.S. actions as “a dangerous precedent,” underlining the critical need for member states to support rather than intimidate UN officials engaged in human rights work. He called for a collaborative environment where special rapporteurs can operate without fear of retribution.
As the international community continues to observe developments in Gaza—where reports indicate that the ongoing conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, with over 57,575 Palestinian fatalities documented since escalation began—Albanese’s work gains even more relevance. Her role as an advocate for justice remains essential during these challenging times.
Through her unwavering efforts and the duty of the international community to support human rights, there is hope for meaningful dialogue and a resolution that prioritizes peace and justice for all involved in this multifaceted conflict.
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