Trump Nominates Brent Bozell as Ambassador to South Africa Amidst Tension
President Trump has nominated Brent Bozell III as ambassador to South Africa after tensions arose from South Africa’s stance on Israel and the expulsion of its ambassador. Bozell’s previous roles include founding conservative media organizations. Relations between the US and South Africa have sharply declined under Trump’s leadership, marked by racial allegations and diplomatic actions.
US President Donald Trump has nominated conservative media critic Brent Bozell III as the new ambassador to South Africa amidst deteriorating diplomatic relations. This nomination comes after the recent expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, by the US. The Trump administration has criticized South Africa’s legal proceedings against Israel concerning the Gaza conflict and has made allegations regarding the treatment of white South Africans.
The Senate must confirm Mr. Bozell’s nomination before he can assume the ambassadorship. Previously, he was nominated for a different role at the now-defunct US Agency for Global Media, a position he ultimately did not take. Bozell is known for founding the Media Research Center, aimed at exposing liberal biases, and the Parents Television Council.
Brent Bozell’s son was involved in the January 6 Capitol riot and was convicted and sentenced to prison in 2022. Under the Trump administration, US-South Africa relations have worsened significantly, highlighted by the expulsion of Rasool earlier this year. Secretary of State Marco Rubio referred to Rasool as a “race-baiting politician”.
In February, Trump signed an executive order halting US aid to South Africa, alleging racial discrimination against white Afrikaners regarding land acquisition. A 2018 audit indicated that while 7.2% of South Africa’s population consists of white citizens, they control a disproportionate 72% of privately owned farmland. The South African government, led by the ANC coalition, has denounced Trump’s actions as a misinformation campaign against their country.
The appointment of Brent Bozell as ambassador to South Africa comes as diplomatic tensions escalate between the US and South Africa following critical comments from the latter’s former ambassador. The Trump administration’s actions, including the expulsion of the South African ambassador and the freeze on aid, highlight a deteriorating relationship shaped by allegations of discrimination and geopolitical disagreements, particularly revolving around Israel. This nomination awaits Senate confirmation but underscores the contentious political climate regarding US foreign policy in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
