To defame me and silence my voice about the crimes in Gaza

Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories,

accused the United States of using mafia tactics to intimidate and discredit her.

This comes after Washington announced the imposition of personal sanctions

against her due to her critical stances towards Israel.

Crude attempt

Albanese said in her statements that what the US administration is doing is not

a defense of democracy or human rights, as it claims.

Rather, it is a blatant attempt to silence any voice criticizing Israeli violations in Gaza.

Affirming that she will continue to perform her duty without fear or hesitation.

The UN rapporteur added that the sanctions imposed on it reflect Washington’s double standards on human rights.

Noting that the United States has not imposed any sanctions on

Israeli officials involved in violations against Palestinian civilians.

Albanese stressed that the smear campaigns and threats will not deter her from continuing her work.

A dangerous precedent that undermines the independence of the United Nations

Considering that targeting UN rapporteurs is a dangerous precedent

that undermines the independence and credibility of the United Nations,

Calling on the international community to defend freedom of speech and justice.

She concluded her remarks by stressing that “sanctions will not scare me.”

She added that the truth is stronger than all attempts to silence it,

and that history will record those who stood with justice and those who covered up crimes.