A new US bill against South Africa has been introduced in Congress in 2025. The legislation addresses diplomatic and legal actions involving South Africa’s relations with Israel and international institutions, proposing conditions on U.S. assistance and sanctions on certain officials.
Introduction of the US Bill Against South Africa
On June 17, 2025, Representative Greg Steube introduced the Addressing Hostile and Antisemitic Conduct by the Republic of South Africa Act of 2025. The bill, referred to the House Committees on Foreign Affairs and Judiciary, proposes suspending direct U.S. aid to South Africa and targeting officials with sanctions under specific criteria.
Background Cited in the Bill
The bill highlights various actions by South Africa, including:
- A phone call between South Africa’s foreign minister and Hamas representatives in October 2024
- Hosting a Hamas delegation at a solidarity event in South Africa
- Meetings between Hamas and members of South Africa’s ruling African National Congress (ANC)
- A 2023 economic cooperation agreement with Iran involving oil refinery projects
- Legal actions against Israel initiated by South Africa at the International Court of Justice
Suspension of U.S. Assistance
The bill proposes suspending direct U.S. assistance to South Africa unless the Secretary of State certifies that South Africa has:
- Ended formal support for legal actions targeting Israel
- Implemented reforms addressing government corruption
- Engaged constructively with U.S. diplomats on international law and protection of religious minorities
Exceptions apply to humanitarian aid and public health programs administered by nongovernmental organisations.
Sanctions Included in the US Bill Against South Africa
Under the bill, the President would impose sanctions on individuals who:
- Promote antisemitic policies or rhetoric in an official capacity
- Use public office to target Israel or Jewish individuals through international platforms
- Engage in corruption involving public funds or foreign aid
These sanctions would be applied under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.
Reporting Requirements
The Secretary of State must submit a report to Congress within 90 days after enactment that includes:
- Actions taken by South Africa in the last five years involving Israel or Jewish communities
- A summary of U.S. assistance to South Africa, including military, law enforcement, and financial aid
Conditions for Ending Measures
Aid suspension and sanctions would be lifted only if the President certifies that South Africa has:
- Ceased participation in the described actions
- Implemented institutional reforms
- Taken steps to improve cooperation with the U.S. and its allies
Additional Clarifications
The bill clarifies it does not:
- Prohibit diplomatic engagement between the U.S. and South Africa
- Restrict private humanitarian or charitable assistance
- Affect unrelated trade agreements or tariffs
