U.S.-South Africa Bilateral Relations Review Act of 2025

This legislation expresses congressional concern over South Africa's foreign policy actions, which are deemed inconsistent with its stated nonalignment. Congress finds that the South African Government and the African National Congress (ANC) have increasingly sided with Hamas , the People's Republic of China (PRC) , and the Russian Federation , undermining U.S. national security interests. The bill cites numerous examples, including South Africa's support for Hamas following the October 7, 2023 attacks, its military and political cooperation with Russia, and its deep engagement with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) through various initiatives and institutions. It also highlights concerns about the South African government's mismanagement of state resources and alleged corruption. To address these concerns, the Act mandates that the President, within 30 days, certify whether South Africa has engaged in activities detrimental to U.S. national security or foreign policy interests, accompanied by a justifying report. Furthermore, within 120 days, the President must conduct a comprehensive review of the bilateral relationship and submit a report detailing its findings to Congress. Finally, the bill requires a classified report within 120 days, identifying senior South African government officials and ANC leaders who have engaged in corruption or human rights abuses that meet the criteria for sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. This report must include detailed explanations for their inclusion and either a timeline for imposing sanctions or a justification for not doing so.