World Desk

A United Nations investigator and outspoken critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza says the sanctions imposed on her by the Trump administration will have serious consequences for her personal and professional life.

Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur for the Palestinian Territories, told The Associated Press in Rome on Tuesday that being sanctioned by the United States is “very serious,” as it bars her from any financial transactions or credit card use with American banks.

“My daughter is American. I’ve lived in the US and have some assets there. So, of course, it’s going to harm me,” said Albanese. “But I did everything in good faith. My commitment to justice is more important than personal interests.”

Albanese has accused Israel of committing “genocide” in Gaza, a charge both Israel and the US strongly deny. Earlier this month, Washington imposed sanctions on her after failing to convince the UN Human Rights Council to remove her from the post.

Despite the sanctions, Albanese continues her work. In July, she published a report accusing Israel of operating a “genocidal economy” in the occupied Palestinian territories. The report urges sanctions against Israel and prosecution of those responsible for enabling or profiting from the occupation.

“There’s an entire ecosystem that has allowed Israel’s occupation to thrive and turn into an economy of genocide,” she said.

She also noted shifting global sentiment, especially in Europe, following graphic images of starving children and hunger-related deaths in Gaza after nearly 22 months of war.

“It’s shocking. I don’t think there are words left to describe what’s happening to the Palestinian people,” Albanese said.