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The durability of US-South Africa relations is under scrutiny as a bill in the US House of Representatives prompts a comprehensive review of the bilateral ties. This move signals a potential inflection point brought about by divergent stances on international issues, including South Africa's response to Israel's actions in Gaza and relations with contentious global players.
The US-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act, introduced on February 6, pointedly questions Pretoria's alleged alignment with entities and nations the US deems adversarial, such as Hamas, Iran, Russia, and China. The bill bristles at South Africa's historical relationship with the ANC and its leaders' condemnatory remarks following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2021, and subsequent interactions with Hamas and Iran.
What's more, the bill has called attention to South Africa's engagement with Russia, amid wider geopolitical concerns, and has highlighted the nation's trade ties with China. This underscores the geopolitical complexities of South Africa's foreign policy, which balances substantial trade relations with the world's superpowers.
US President Joe Biden is expected to present a detailed report to Congress within 120 days post-enactment of the bill, summarizing the results of the relationship reassessment. Though the bill has sailed through the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, its passage into law remains uncertain.
Experts like Joel Samoff from Stanford University view the bill as a political gesture, reflective of disappointment with South Africa for initiating ICJ proceedings against Israel. Nevertheless, he forecasts the preservation of the US-South Africa partnership due to its mutual significance.
South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor, during her visit to Washington, DC, articulated her nation's aspiration for peace and noted the "disquiet" from the US concerning South Africa's actions in the ICJ. She defended her government's position, denying any ACC's partnership with Hamas and pointing to the country's foundational philosophy of seeking international peace.
Turbulence in US-South Africa relations surfaced in May 2023 over allegations of South African arms supplies to Russia. Although an internal probe cleared Pretoria of such claims, the incident strained diplomatic relations and impacted South Africa's global reputation.
Amidst brewing pressures, South Africa remains resolute, as showcased by their stance on the use of Huawei's technology. As the US's largest trading partner in Africa, a significant economic relationship is at stake, including participation in the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) which grants sub-Saharan countries duty-free access to the American market.
The two nations have historically collaborated on various fronts beyond economics, including health initiatives like the Global Action Plan against COVID-19 and climate change endeavors.
Resonating through the bilateral discussions, both countries acknowledge the partnership's value. Pandor's optimism reveals a shared intent to navigate current disputes and nurture the longstanding alliance.