By: Phakeme Mnguni
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) says South Africa remains committed to principled and transparent diplomacy with the United States, despite growing tensions following a law-enforcement operation in Johannesburg.
Washington has criticised Pretoria over a raid at a refugee facility in the city, alleging that South African authorities detained U.S. officials and publicly released their passport details.
The U.S. has described the incident as harassment and intimidation.
DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri has dismissed the allegations, saying South Africa acted within its legal framework and in line with international norms. He stressed that the country will not negotiate on the implementation of the rule of law.
“South Africa is a sovereign state governed by the rule of law, and this applies equally to all individuals and entities operating within its borders,” Phiri said.
The incident has drawn attention to diplomatic sensitivities between the two countries, which share long-standing political, economic and security ties. DIRCO said South Africa remains open to constructive engagement with the U.S. through established diplomatic channels, while maintaining its constitutional and legal obligations.
