Geneva – A United Nations human rights expert has strongly condemned the United States for imposing sanctions on the UN Special Rapporteur for Palestinian territories, stating that the move violates diplomatic immunity and undermines international law.
Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories, described the US sanctions as an “unprecedented attack” on her mandate. The sanctions, which include financial and travel restrictions, were imposed after Albanese criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Violation of Diplomatic Immunity
Albanese emphasized that as a UN mandate holder, she is entitled to immunity under international law. “This is not just about me—it’s about protecting the independence of all UN experts who investigate human rights violations,” she said.
The US State Department accused Albanese of “biased reporting” and “anti-Israel rhetoric,” justifying the sanctions as a response to her criticism of Israeli policies. However, legal experts argue that targeting a UN-appointed investigator sets a dangerous precedent.
Global Reactions
Human rights organizations and several countries have expressed concern over the US decision. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) reiterated that Special Rapporteurs must operate without intimidation or retaliation.
“This undermines the UN’s ability to hold perpetrators of human rights abuses accountable,” said a spokesperson for Human Rights Watch.
What’s Next?
The UN is expected to address the issue in upcoming sessions, with calls for the US to reverse its decision. Meanwhile, Albanese vows to continue her work, stating, “No sanctions will silence me from exposing violations against Palestinians.”
The controversy highlights growing tensions between the US and UN mechanisms over accountability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
