Amanpour’s Fears about Traveling to the U.S.: A Disturbing Perspective on Safety

Christiane Amanpour: Foreigner in Fear

During a recent episode of her podcast, "The Ex–Files," renowned journalist Christiane Amanpour revealed her trepidation about visiting the United States, describing her preparation as akin to traveling to a repressive regime. Speaking with her co-host, Jamie Rubin—former Clinton operative—Amanpour unpacked the unsettling feelings she faced as a non-citizen confronting potential scrutiny at U.S. borders.

Prepared for the Worst: The Burner Phone

Amanpour shared how she approached her trip with considerable caution:

• "I must say, I was afraid," she declared, noting her status as a prominent figure without U.S. citizenship.
• To safeguard her communication, she opted to bring a burner phone, containing only essential numbers: her assistant, lawyer, son, and Rubin.

Concerns About U.S. Immigration Procedures

The veteran journalist voiced serious concerns over the treatment of foreign individuals at U.S. borders:

• "I heard that many, including British citizens, are being stopped at the border and being questioned for hours," Amanpour stated, reinforcing her anxiety.

Despite these fears, she encountered a surprisingly pleasant experience with the immigration officer in Boston, who expressed gratitude for her work and alleviated some of her worries. She reflected, “Can you imagine? If I’m afraid, what do others think?”

Amanpour’s Career and Activism

Amanpour, who gained prominence in the 1990s for her courageous reporting on issues such as the Bosnian War, continues to be a vocal advocate for human rights. While she has faced criticism, particularly regarding allegations of anti-Israel bias, her commitment to journalistic integrity remains steadfast.

Inspiring Future Leaders at Harvard

During her recent address at the Harvard Kennedy School, Amanpour encouraged graduates to venture abroad and engage in meaningful work:

• "Find your government work and your public service while you need to, in other countries. The world needs you, and America needs ambassadors like you," she urged.

Her call to action highlights the pressing need for dedicated professionals in international relations and public service.

Critique of Current Political Climate

Amanpour did not shy away from criticizing the Trump administration, drawing parallels to authoritarian regimes. She advised graduates to navigate the political landscape with "cat and mouse" tactics to cope with ongoing challenges.

Concerning Developments at Harvard

Amanpour’s speech coincided with escalating tensions surrounding Harvard’s educational policies. U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced plans to revoke Harvard’s student and exchange visitor program certification, citing the university’s perceived failure to create a safe environment for students.

Press Freedom Under Fire

Amanpour’s passionate plea reinforced the importance of press freedom, stating:

• "They are coming after us, but you can still find plenty of excellent fact-based journalism right now in the ‘1984’-‘Animal Farm’ vortex that we are caught up in."

Her statements underscore the critical role of journalists in disseminating truthful information amidst a turbulent political landscape.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Amanpour’s recent experiences and remarks resonate beyond her personal narrative, serving as a stark reminder of the broader challenges facing journalists and citizens alike in today’s world. With critical discussions around immigration and press freedom at the forefront, her call for engagement and vigilance remains more relevant than ever.

For those interested in exploring more about Christiane Amanpour’s work and her contributions to journalism, as well as the complexities of U.S. immigration policies, these topics are pivotal for fostering informed discourse.

To stay updated on issues of press freedom and human rights, following organizations like the Committee to Protect Journalists can provide valuable insights and resources.