The family of United Nations special rapporteur Francesca Albanese has filed a lawsuit against United States President Donald Trump and senior members of his administration over sanctions imposed on her last year. The suit, brought by her husband Massimiliano Cali and their minor daughter, was filed in federal court in Washington and argues that the sanctions are unconstitutional.

The complaint claims the measures violate free speech protections, constitute unreasonable seizure of property, and deny due process. While Albanese and her husband are not United States citizens, the lawsuit argues that their daughter, who was born in the country, has standing to bring the claims. The family says the sanctions have prevented access to their home in Washington and disrupted financial and professional activities.

Albanese was sanctioned over what the administration described as political and economic warfare against the United States and Israel. A State Department spokesperson called the lawsuit baseless and criticized her conduct, while Albanese has said the sanctions are part of a broader effort to undermine international accountability.

The legal challenge comes amid mounting criticism from Israel and several European governments over Albanese’s statements about Israel and the war in Gaza. Some officials have called for her resignation, accusing her of biased and antisemitic rhetoric, allegations she denies, describing recent attacks on her as toxic and personally damaging.