Trump Nominates Leo Brent Bozell III as Ambassador to South Africa Amid Tensions

President Trump has nominated Leo Brent Bozell III as ambassador to South Africa during tense U.S.-South Africa relations, particularly regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. The nomination follows the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador over critical remarks about Trump. Bozell, known for his conservative media background, awaits Senate confirmation as relations between the two countries remain fraught.

On Tuesday, United States President Donald Trump nominated Leo Brent Bozell III, a conservative media commentator and pro-Israel advocate, to serve as ambassador to South Africa. This nomination comes amidst tense diplomatic relations, particularly regarding South Africa’s position on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Bozell’s confirmation is pending approval from the U.S. Senate.

Relations between South Africa and the United States are currently at a low point, exemplified by the recent expulsion of South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool. The U.S. government declared Rasool persona non grata following his critical remarks regarding President Trump and his administration, leading to his forced departure last week.

President Trump has voiced strong criticism of South Africa’s actions related to the Israel-Hamas situation, including accusations of genocide in Gaza. Furthermore, he has incorrectly stated that the South African government is persecuting the white minority population and enacting illegal land seizures, while also proposing refugee status for those affected.

In response to these concerns, Trump signed an executive order halting all financial assistance to South Africa. Bozell, a prominent figure in conservative media, co-founded the Media Research Center and the Parents Television Council. His son gained notoriety for participating in the Capitol riot in January 2021 and subsequently received a prison sentence.

Previously, Bozell was nominated to lead the U.S. Agency for Global Media, but that nomination was ultimately withdrawn. Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has not yet appointed a new ambassador to the U.S., but he has dismissed claims of targeted violence against white individuals in his country as a “completely false narrative.”

In summary, President Trump’s nomination of Leo Brent Bozell III as ambassador to South Africa reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and South Africa, particularly regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Bozell’s confirmation awaits Senate approval amid political controversies surrounding both nations. Furthermore, the strained relations are underscored by the expulsion of the South African ambassador and Trump’s recent executive order impacting financial aid.

Original Source: www.newsday.com