South Africa faces potential sanctions as U.S. lawmakers back critical bill

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

The legislation reflects growing frustration among U.S. lawmakers over South Africa’s foreign policy stance, particularly its perceived alignment with countries like Russia and Iran, and its criticism of Western positions on global conflicts.

If passed, the bill would require the U.S. State Department to conduct a thorough review of Washington’s relations with Pretoria, including trade, military cooperation, and diplomatic engagement.

It could also open the door to sanctions against certain South African officials.

The bill, sighted by Reuters, proposes “a full review of the bilateral relationship” between the United States and South Africa and calls for the identification of South African government officials and ANC leaders “eligible for the imposition of sanctions.”

This legislative move comes as tensions between Washington and Pretoria deepen over a range of foreign policy disagreements.

South Africa is currently battling to avoid a 30% tariff on its exports to the U.S., while also navigating fallout from claims of “white genocide”, an accusation that has fueled diplomatic friction between President Donald Trump and President Cyril Ramaphosa.

South Africa’s strong affiliation with BRICS and its vocal support for the Palestinian cause, particularly in the ongoing Gaza conflict, have further widened the rift.

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

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

The bill also accuses South Africa of undermining U.S. interests by maintaining close ties with Russia and China, its fellow BRICS members, and of supporting Hamas, a designation South Africa strongly rejects.

Critics of the bill argue that it threatens long-standing ties between the two countries and could undermine cooperation on security, health, and economic development.

However, its supporters maintain that the U.S. must hold its partners accountable when their policies are at odds with American interests and democratic values.

As the bill moves forward, its passage could mark a significant turning point in U.S.–South Africa relations, with wide-ranging implications for regional diplomacy and international alliances.