Human Rights

US Accuses UN Expert of ‘Economic Warfare’ Over Report Linking Big Tech to Israeli Occupation

NEW YORK – The United States has strongly criticized United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, accusing her of targeting American companies in what it calls a campaign of “economic warfare.”

Albanese recently sent letters to dozens of corporations, including major firms like Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet (Google), and Palantir, warning they could be held responsible for helping Israel maintain control over Palestinian territories. Her report claims these companies supply technology and services such as surveillance systems, artificial intelligence tools, and military support that enable human rights violations against Palestinians.

“These letters are more than just warnings,” the U.S. Mission to the UN said in a statement on Tuesday. “They represent an unacceptable attempt to damage the American and global economy with false and offensive accusations.”

Albanese plans to present her findings on Thursday in Geneva. The report describes how advanced technology and infrastructure provided by these companies allegedly sustain Israeli settlements and military operations in the West Bank and Gaza.

The timing has added to already high tensions. Since October 2023, Israeli airstrikes and ground offensives in Gaza have killed more than 56,500 Palestinians, many of them women and children, according to Gaza’s health ministry. International courts are investigating Israel’s actions. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes. Israel also faces a genocide case before the International Court of Justice.

The U.S. has called on UN Secretary-General António Guterres to condemn Albanese’s actions and consider removing her from her role as Special Rapporteur. Officials warned that failing to respond could damage the UN’s reputation and might force Washington to take further steps, though they did not specify what those measures could be.

Albanese defended her work, saying her mandate requires her to examine how business activities contribute to human rights abuses. “Companies cannot look the other way while profiting from occupation,” she said.

Her report has received praise from human rights groups that support stronger accountability for corporations. However, critics argue her approach risks harming lawful business and could deepen diplomatic conflicts. The UN Human Rights Council will debate the findings later this week.

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