Amal Clooney Faces Possible U.S. Sanctions Over Legal Work

NEW YORK, NY — Amal Clooney, the prominent human rights lawyer and wife of actor George Clooney, is reportedly at risk of being barred from entering the United States due to her recent legal activities with the International Criminal Court (ICC). The news emerges as the couple temporarily relocates to New York City while George Clooney stars in the stage adaptation of his 2005 film ‘Good Night, and Good Luck.’

The U.K. Foreign Office has warned several high-profile barristers, including Amal, about potential sanctions in response to their involvement in a war crimes case against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. This warning follows an executive order signed by President Trump aimed at ICC officials and their associates, declaring their actions targeting U.S. interests as illegitimate.

Amal Clooney has provided legal advice for the ICC’s investigation into alleged war crimes committed during recent conflicts, which may place her at direct risk of sanctions. The executive order suggests such sanctions could include assets blocking and suspension of entry into the U.S. for ICC officials and their immediate families.

During a recent appearance on ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,’ George Clooney expressed his family’s affection for New York, stating, “They love being here. It’s New York City.” The couple shares two young children and owns several properties, primarily living in France.

Furthermore, the executive order claims that the ICC has overstepped its authority by issuing what it describes as baseless arrest warrants against Israeli officials. In a previous ruling, the ICC issued arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant due to their response to the ongoing conflict with Hamas, particularly following the devastating attacks that occurred on October 7, 2023.

Amal Clooney, a British citizen, was born in Lebanon and has practiced law in both the U.S. and the U.K. Her work in international law has brought her into the spotlight alongside her husband, who has made significant contributions to humanitarian efforts through the Clooney Foundation for Justice.

George Clooney, who recently praised their family time during this stage production, added, “Actually, a play is kind of a good schedule because you’re working at night. You get to see the kids during the day.”

As the situation evolves, it remains unclear how these potential sanctions may affect Amal Clooney’s ability to travel to the U.S., where she has significant personal and professional ties.