In a bold stance, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, along with several colleagues, urged the UN to decline the reappointment of Francesca Albanese as special rapporteur for the ‘occupied Palestinian territories.’ They argue that Albanese has persistently breached the UN Human Rights Council’s code of conduct and made derogatory remarks regarding Israel, particularly following the tragic events of October 7th.
Mast’s letter articulates strong criticisms, stating that Albanese “has consistently aligned herself with Hamas terrorists” and made accusations comparing Israel’s government to the Third Reich. The lawmakers believe that her conduct has fostered antisemitism within the council and showcased a failure to hold significant human rights violators accountable.
The letter was co-signed by several Republican representatives including Young Kim, Michael Lawler, Keith Self, Maria Elvira Salazar, Cory Mills, and Ryan Zinke. They emphasised Albanese’s failure to maintain the impartiality and integrity expected of her role, citing specific examples of her inflammatory comments that have escalated since the October attacks.
This situation raises concerns about the integrity of the Human Rights Council. Albanese’s remarks have drawn condemnation from several nations, including France, Germany, and Canada, yet no action has been taken against her. The lawmakers assert that her continued service undermines the Council’s credibility and that the UN must reclaim integrity by not renewing her appointment.
Chairman Brian Mast led a group of GOP members in urging the UN to reject Francesca Albanese’s reappointment as the special rapporteur for the ‘occupied Palestinian territories.’ They cite her numerous violations of the UN Human Rights Council’s code of conduct and inflammatory statements about Israel, calling for a necessary commitment to integrity and accountability within the UN.
In summary, Chairman Brian Mast, supported by Republican representatives, demands the UN reject Francesca Albanese’s reappointment due to numerous violations of the conduct code and inflammatory remarks against Israel. They believe her rhetoric contributes to antisemitism within the council and undermines its purpose. With strong backing from various governments, the urgency to promote accountability and integrity within the UN has never been clearer as they call for an end to Albanese’s service.
Original Source: gop-foreignaffairs.house.gov
