Trump nominates conservative media critic for ambassador to South Africa during strained relations

By Mogomotsi Magome

U.S. President Donald Trump nominated conservative media critic and pro-Israel commentator Leo Brent Bozell III as ambassador to South Africa. The move Tuesday comes during strained diplomatic relations with the country, including over its stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The nomination of Bozell, an outspoken Israel supporter, comes at a time when relations between South Africa and the U.S are at a low. Bozell must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

The frosty relations saw South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S., Ebrahim Rasool, declared persona non grata by the U.S. government over his comments about Trump and his administration and was forced to leave the country last Friday.

Trump has been critical of South Africa’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict, including taking Israel to the International Court of Justice and accusing it of committing genocide in Gaza.

He has also falsely accused the South African government of targeting the minority white population