US Bill Proposes Sanctions on South Africa Over Israel Case

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A bill introduced in the US Congress seeks to suspend aid to South Africa and impose sanctions on its officials, citing Pretoria’s legal actions against Israel and growing ties with Iran and Hamas.

Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) introduced the “Addressing Hostile and Antisemitic Conduct by the Republic of South Africa Act of 2025,” accusing the South African government of targeting Israel through international legal forums. The bill also cites South Africa’s diplomatic engagements with Iran and Hamas as undermining US national security interests.

“It is clear that the Government of South Africa is unfairly targeting the State of Israel and inciting hostility toward the United States and our allies,” Steube said in a statement dated June 17.

The bill was introduced in response to South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, recent meetings with Hamas representatives, and a reported economic agreement with Iran on oil development.

If passed, the legislation would halt all direct US assistance to South Africa, except for humanitarian and health programs. It would also allow the president to sanction South African officials under the Global Magnitsky Act if found to have advanced antisemitic policies or misused international courts to undermine Israel.

Political analyst Siseko Maposa stated that the bill reflects a broader Republican initiative to counter South Africa’s international stance. He emphasized that, although the passage is uncertain, the bill carries serious diplomatic weight due to its punitive elements.

Between 2012 and 2021, South Africa received an estimated $6 billion in combined US foreign direct investment and assistance. Maposa noted that lobbying moderate Republicans could be South Africa’s best chance to block the bill, given divisions within the party.

Critics of the bill argue that equating criticism of Israel with antisemitism may face legal challenges in the US, especially regarding free speech protections.

South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor has previously defended the ICJ case as fulfilling obligations under the Genocide Convention. Government spokespersons emphasized the country’s non-aligned foreign policy, rooted in constitutional values and a commitment to international law.

At present, South Africa is monitoring the proposed legislation through its embassy in Washington, D.C., and has not issued a formal response.