Francesca Albanese, the UN special rapporteur for the West Bank and Gaza, told The Associated Press that US sanctions imposed by the Trump administration will severely disrupt her life and work due to her outspoken criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza. As a UN Human Rights Council appointee, Albanese has accused Israel of “genocide” against Palestinians, a charge both Israel and the US, its key ally, vehemently deny.

The US, labeling her work a “campaign of political and economic warfare,” sanctioned Albanese after failing to oust her from her role. “These sanctions are harmful and dangerous when used politically,” she said in Rome, noting restrictions on financial interactions with US banks. With an American daughter and assets in the US, Albanese faces personal challenges but remains steadfast, stating, “My commitment to justice outweighs personal interests.”

Undeterred, Albanese released a July report condemning Israel’s “genocidal economy” in Palestinian territories, urging sanctions and prosecution of those involved. She highlighted global outrage over Gaza’s dire conditions, including hunger-related deaths and images of emaciated children, nearly 22 months into a war that began October 7, 2023, with a Hamas-led attack killing 1,200 and taking 251 hostages.

Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 60,000 Palestinian deaths, with widespread displacement and famine conditions due to Israel’s blockade.

Also Read: Trump’s Ceasefire Claims Spark Political Firestorm in India

Also Read: Trump’s Gaza Food Centers Plan Ignites Controversy