South Africa is under growing diplomatic pressure from the United States as a major congressional committee advances legislation that could lead to sanctions and a sweeping review of U.S.–South Africa relations.

The “U.S.-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act” was approved by the House Foreign Affairs Committee in a 34–16 vote, moving it forward to the full House of Representatives for debate.

The bill highlights rising frustration among U.S. lawmakers with South Africa’s foreign policy, particularly its perceived closeness to countries like Russia and Iran, and its criticism of the West’s positions on global conflicts.

If enacted, the legislation would require the U.S. State Department to assess the entire scope of its relationship with South Africa, including trade, military cooperation, and diplomatic ties, and identify South African officials and ruling ANC leaders who may be subject to sanctions.

According to a copy of the bill seen by Reuters, the legislation calls for “a full review of the bilateral relationship” and outlines the need to determine which South African government officials are “eligible for the imposition of sanctions.”

This move comes at a time of rising tensions between Washington and Pretoria over a series of foreign policy disagreements.

South Africa is also facing the threat of a 30% tariff on its exports to the U.S. and dealing with ongoing fallout from allegations of “white genocide,” a claim that has added to diplomatic tensions between former U.S. President Donald Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

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Washington’s concerns have also been fueled by South Africa’s strong ties to the BRICS bloc, alongside Russia and China, and its outspoken support for the Palestinian cause during the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Pretoria’s decision to take Israel to the International Court of Justice over alleged genocide has been especially controversial in the U.S.

When introducing the bill in April, Republican Congressman Ronny Jackson of Texas posted on X (formerly Twitter): “South Africa made its choice when they abandoned America and our allies and sided with communists and terrorists.”

The bill further accuses South Africa of damaging U.S. interests by maintaining close relationships with Russia and China and of supporting Hamas, a charge that South Africa firmly denies.

Critics of the legislation warn that it could harm long-standing partnerships between the two countries, particularly in areas like security, health, and economic development.

Supporters of the bill argue that the U.S. must take a stand when partner nations adopt policies that go against American interests and democratic principles.

As the bill moves closer to a vote in the House, its outcome could reshape the future of U.S.–South Africa relations, with significant consequences for regional diplomacy and global alliances.

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Image Credit: Business Insider Africa