U.S.–South Africa relations are entering a period of unprecedented strain, as Republican lawmakers in Washington escalate efforts to formally reassess Pretoria’s foreign policy orientation. The introduction of the U.S.–South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act of 2025 signals a broader backlash against South Africa’s perceived pivot toward Washington’s global rivals.
Introduced by Congressman Ronny Jackson (R-TX) and co-led by Representative John James (R-MI), the legislation calls for a comprehensive review of bilateral relations and enables the U.S. administration to impose sanctions on South African officials found to be supporting “America’s adversaries”—namely China, Russia, and Iran.
“South Africa has brazenly abandoned its relationship with the United States to align with China, Russia, Iran, and terrorist organisations—a betrayal that demands serious consequences,” said Rep. Jackson. His colleague, Rep. James, reinforced the stance, stating, “The South African government and the ANC have consistently undermined U.S. national security interests and intentionally aligned with Beijing, Moscow, and Tehran.”
This legislative push comes in the wake of several moves by Pretoria that have unsettled American policymakers. South Africa’s decision to initiate legal proceedings against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of genocide in Gaza, has drawn sharp criticism from U.S. allies and lawmakers alike. Furthermore, increased defence cooperation with Russia, participation in joint naval drills, and outspoken support for BRICS economic initiatives—such as de-dollarisation and alternative financial systems—have deepened perceptions of an adversarial tilt.
At the diplomatic level, Pretoria has made no secret of its commitment to a multipolar world order. South African officials continue to advocate for a restructured global economy, one less dependent on Western-led institutions and currencies. The country has also played host to Iranian delegations in recent months, expanding its diplomatic footprint in ways that many in Washington view as counter to shared democratic and security interests.
The Bilateral Relations Review Act builds upon President Trump’s 7 February Executive Order, which addressed what it described as “egregious actions” by the Republic of South Africa. Though details remain classified, congressional insiders confirm the order reflects mounting concern over South Africa’s alignment with countries under U.S. sanctions and its critical stance on Western foreign policy norms.
South African scholars, however, view the proposed legislation as a familiar pattern of U.S. hegemony.
Dr. Naledi Maseko, a senior lecturer in International Relations at the University of the Witwatersrand, argues that Pretoria is unlikely to shift course in the face of pressure from Washington.
“South Africa’s foreign policy has increasingly reflected a long-term repositioning within the Global South—what we’re seeing is less about provoking the United States and more about affirming strategic autonomy,” said Dr. Maseko. “The government will likely interpret this legislation as a return to Cold War-style pressure politics and respond by doubling down on multilateral partnerships, particularly through BRICS and the African Union.”
She further noted that the domestic political value of maintaining a sovereign foreign policy—especially in an election year—cannot be underestimated. “With criticism of Western double standards growing globally, South Africa is not isolated in its position. Any U.S. sanctions may reinforce the ANC’s narrative of standing against imperial coercion.”
While the legislation has yet to pass both chambers, its introduction sends a potent message: the United States is no longer prepared to view South Africa as a reliable ally without scrutiny. Sanctions, trade restrictions, and reduced security cooperation are now on the table.
Pretoria, for its part, has framed its foreign policy as an assertion of sovereignty, non-alignment, and solidarity with oppressed peoples globally. The African National Congress (ANC) continues to defend its international engagements as consistent with its historic role in the anti-apartheid struggle and in support of global justice.
But in Washington, such assertions are increasingly seen as provocations. With the U.S. Congress now actively questioning the future of the bilateral relationship, the diplomatic fallout may extend beyond rhetoric—toward economic and political costs yet to be fully measured.
