Christiane Amanpour, the renowned British-Iranian journalist, recently shared her concerns about traveling to the United States during a podcast with her ex-husband, Jamie Rubin. Speaking on ‘The Ex Files,’ Amanpour revealed her feelings of apprehension about her trip to the U.S. last month, where she was invited to speak at her alma mater, Harvard Kennedy School. She expressed that her anxiety was so acute that she felt as if she were preparing to visit North Korea.
During her appearance, Amanpour explained that she took extreme precautions for her trip, using only a burner phone and leaving her personal devices behind out of fear. This admission prompted a wave of criticism on social media, with several users mocking her concerns and suggesting she should refrain from traveling to America if she felt unsafe. One comment noted, “If you’re afraid, don’t come here,” reflecting a sentiment shared by a number of her detractors.
Despite her initial fears, Amanpour later mentioned that her arrival in the United States turned out to be quite welcoming, leading her to ponder what others might feel under similar circumstances. She also touched upon discussions with CNN’s security team regarding the treatment of other British citizens who faced challenges at the U.S. border.
The conversation also shifted towards recent actions by former President Trump, particularly his controversial executive order targeting foreign students at Ivy League institutions. Trump argued that the immigration measures were essential for national security, claiming that some foreign nationals pose threats by exploiting the U.S. education system. He specifically cited concerns about nations such as China using student visa programs for espionage or misinformation efforts.
Additionally, Trump announced a broader travel ban affecting nationals from 19 countries, asserting the necessity of stringent screening processes for those entering the U.S.
Amanpour’s experience highlights the growing unease some individuals feel regarding international travel amid changing political climates. Nevertheless, it also underscores the resilience of American institutions and the global contributions of international students at prestigious universities like Harvard, where they have traditionally comprised a significant portion of the student body. This can serve as a reminder of the strength derived from diversity and international collaboration, crucial elements for fostering innovation and understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.