What You Need to Know
Leo Brent Bozell III has arrived in South Africa as the new US ambassador, aiming to mend strained relations between the two countries. His priorities include addressing the genocide case against Israel and supporting a controversial refugee program for white South Africans, which may escalate tensions with Pretoria.
Africa-Press. Leo Brent Bozell III, the conservative activist and writer chosen by President Donald Trump as the United States ambassador, has arrived in South Africa, where he will seek to improve the strained relations between the two countries.
An embassy official confirmed Bozell’s arrival. He is expected to present his credentials to President Cyril Ramaphosa before officially beginning his duties. Relations between Washington and Pretoria have deteriorated over the past year, with Trump accusing South Africa of persecuting its white minority, criticizing its ties with Russia and China, imposing hefty tariffs on its exports, and cutting all aid.
South Africa has not had an ambassador in Washington since the Trump administration expelled its previous ambassador, Ibrahim Rasool. During his Senate confirmation hearing in October, Bozell stated that he would approach his role as ambassador “with respect for the South African people” and sees a “real opportunity for a lasting partnership” despite some disagreements.
Bozell clarified that his priorities would include pressuring South Africa to end the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, supporting Trump’s refugee program for white South Africans, and promoting trade interests.
The first goal could escalate tensions with the South African government, which considers support for Palestinian rights a cornerstone of its foreign policy.
While Pretoria firmly rejects claims of persecuting its white minority, it has stated that it will not interfere with the American refugee program.
Bozell began his political career with the National Conservative Political Action Committee, where he opposed US engagement with the African National Congress (ANC) during its struggle to end white minority rule in the 1980s. He explained during a Senate hearing that his stance at the time stemmed from the ANC’s alliance with the Soviet Union, the US’s adversary.
However, he emphasized his deep respect for Nelson Mandela, the first president of South Africa after apartheid and a former leader of the ANC. Bozell founded the Media Research Center, a conservative watchdog organization, and the “For America” advocacy group.
The diplomatic relationship between the United States and South Africa has been historically complex, particularly during the apartheid era. The US’s support for anti-apartheid movements contrasted with its Cold War policies, which often favored stability over democracy. Since the end of apartheid, relations have fluctuated, influenced by issues such as trade, human rights, and foreign policy alignments. Recent tensions have arisen due to accusations of racial discrimination and differing stances on international conflicts.
