H.R. 4051: Addressing Hostile and Antisemitic Conduct by the Republic of South Africa Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Addressing Hostile and Antisemitic Conduct by the Republic of South Africa Act of 2025, aims to address certain actions taken by the Government of South Africa that are viewed as hostile or antisemitic, particularly towards the State of Israel and Jewish communities. Below is a summary of its key provisions:

Findings

The bill states that:

• The South African government has engaged in diplomatic and legal actions targeting Israel and Jewish communities.
• These actions are characterized as politically motivated and antisemitic.
• South Africa has aligned itself with authoritarian regimes and entities that are against U.S. interests.
• U.S. taxpayer money should not support governments that engage in such conduct.

Statement of Policy

It establishes U.S. policy to:

• Oppose antisemitic actions in international forums.
• Hold foreign governments accountable for abusing international institutions.
• Respond to governments that act hostile towards U.S. allies.

Suspension of Direct Assistance

The bill includes a provision stating that:

• No funds can be used for direct assistance to South Africa unless the Secretary of State certifies that South Africa has:
• Ceased support for actions that target Israel or Jewish individuals based on identity.
• Implemented reforms to address corruption.
• Engaged constructively with U.S. diplomats on international legal standards and minority protections.
• Exceptions include humanitarian aid and public health programs administered by non-governmental organizations.

Targeted Sanctions

The bill allows the President to impose sanctions on South African officials who:

• Promote antisemitic policies or rhetoric.
• Unjustly target Israel or Jewish individuals through international courts.
• Engage in corruption related to public funds or foreign aid.

Reporting Requirements

The Secretary of State must report to Congress within 90 days after the enactment of the bill, detailing:

• Legal and diplomatic actions taken by South Africa against Israel and Jewish institutions in the past five years.
• A summary of U.S. assistance to South Africa, covering military training and financial aid.

This report must be updated annually for the following three years.

Termination Provisions

The provisions regarding assistance and sanctions will end if the President certifies that South Africa has:

• Stopped participating in politically motivated legal actions against U.S. allies.
• Implemented reforms to prevent misuse of international law and reduce corruption.
• Improved cooperation with the U.S. and its democratic allies.

Rule of Construction

The bill clarifies that it does not:

• Prohibit diplomatic engagement with South Africa.
• Restrict private humanitarian assistance.
• Affect trade agreements or tariffs unrelated to the addressed conduct.

Relevant Companies

None found.