Trump admin ready to welcome some South Africans threatened with violence

Secretary of State Marco Rubio made headlines on Monday when he announced that White South Africans facing threats of violence would be welcomed in the United States. This statement from Rubio comes at a time of heightened tension between the South African government and the Trump administration over issues such as the country’s land expropriation law and its anti-Israel stance.

Rubio’s position was made clear in a post on X, where he referenced the controversial “Kill the Boer” chant, which is seen as inciting violence against White farmers in South Africa. In his statement, Rubio emphasized the need for South Africa to protect Afrikaner and other minority groups who are facing threats of violence. He expressed the United States’ willingness to offer admission to those individuals who qualify for resettlement in the U.S.

The Trump administration has been critical of South Africa’s land expropriation law, which allows the government to seize land without compensation. In response to this law, President Trump issued an executive order penalizing South Africa for its actions.

In addition to the land expropriation issue, South Africa has also come under fire for its anti-Israel stance. The country has accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and has been building closer ties with Iran, including plans for commercial, military, and nuclear cooperation.

Earlier this month, Rubio took a strong stance against South Africa by declaring the country’s ambassador to the U.S., Embrahim Rasool, as persona non grata. Rubio accused Rasool of being a “race-baiting” politician who harbors anti-American and anti-Trump sentiments.

The South African Embassy in Washington D.C. has not yet responded to requests for comment on Rubio’s statements.

Overall, Rubio’s remarks reflect the ongoing tensions between the United States and South Africa over a range of issues, including land rights, international relations, and diplomatic relations. The situation is complex and evolving, with implications for both countries’ foreign policies and relationships with each other.