Tensions between the United States and South Africa are rising as a new U.S. bill could lead to sanctions against some senior ANC and government leaders.
The proposed law, called the U.S.–South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act of 2025, has already passed a key committee in the U.S. Congress. If approved, it would allow the U.S. President to review South Africa’s foreign relations and possibly take action against leaders who are seen as working closely with countries like Russia, China, and Iran, or with groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
So far, no ANC officials have been officially named, but some high-profile figures could be affected. These include Minister Naledi Pandor, who met with Hamas leaders in 2023, and President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has openly criticised Israel. Their public support for the Palestinian cause has drawn strong reactions in the U.S.
One person already in the spotlight is Ebrahim Rasool, who was recently appointed as South Africa’s ambassador to Washington. However, the U.S. reportedly rejected him due to past comments and alleged links to groups the U.S. sees as hostile.
South Africa has slammed the bill, calling it an attack on the country’s right to make its own foreign policy decisions. Some civil society groups say that while corrupt officials should be held accountable, broad sanctions could hurt ordinary South Africans.
If the bill becomes law, the U.S. President will have four months to name individuals who may face actions like travel bans or asset freezes.
For now, all eyes are on what happens next—and whether these tensions will cool down or grow into a full-blown diplomatic fallout.