Amal Clooney Could Face U.S. Entry Ban Over ICC War Crimes Probe
Renowned human rights lawyer Amal Clooney is at the center of a growing international controversy after serving on an expert panel appointed by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to evaluate potential arrest warrants related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.
Clooney was one of eight legal experts—many from the UK—tasked with assessing whether senior figures from both Israel and Hamas should face charges for alleged war crimes. The panel unanimously found sufficient evidence to proceed with charges, including against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.
The ICC’s actions sparked a sharp backlash from political leaders. Former U.S. President Donald Trump responded by imposing sanctions on ICC prosecutor Karim Khan and warned that others involved in the investigation, including Clooney, could face additional repercussions—possibly including a ban from entering the United States.
In the UK, the government has also cautioned its legal advisors about the potential risks of working with the ICC in this high-profile case.
In response to the rising criticism, Clooney released a personal statement defending her role. She reiterated her commitment to the rule of law and the protection of civilians in conflict zones. “Justice must be applied equally,” she stated, “and no one—regardless of their power or nationality—should be above the law.”