In brief
The South African government has rejected claims by the US that it intimidated American officials during a recent raid targeting a refugee processing centre. The situation has heightened diplomatic tensions, with the US warning of severe consequences for the alleged harassment. South Africa counters that it prioritizes data security and stands firm against the allegations.
The South African government has dismissed accusations by the US that it harassed and intimidated American officials during a raid on a centre processing applications by white South Africans for refugee status in the US.
Tuesday's raid saw seven Kenyans expelled from South Africa for working in the country illegally.
The US accused South Africa of publishing the passport details of its officials, saying this was unacceptable and warning of severe consequences.
But South Africa has denied this, saying it treats matters of data security with the utmost seriousness.
The US is offering asylum status to members of South Africa's Afrikaner community, claiming they face persecution, a claim that the South African government has rejected. This diplomatic spat intensified with recent changes in US refugee policy and ongoing tensions since last year.
South Africa expressed concern that foreign officials appeared to have coordinated with undocumented workers and said it reached out to the US and Kenya for a resolution. The US State Department condemned the South African government's actions against its officials, stating that there were no substantial grounds for the accusations pertaining to the leaking of passport information.
Despite tensions, South Africa continues to seek a diplomatic solution with the US, attempting to mend relationships which have soured under the Trump administration.
