Diplomatic Tensions Rise Over Refugee Processing in South Africa

South African authorities arrested and plan to deport seven illegal Kenyan workers involved in processing U.S. refugee applications. This development, linked to Trump's controversial resettlement program for white South Africans, further strains U.S.-South Africa relations. Formal diplomatic discussions have been initiated with the U.S. and Kenya.

South African authorities on Wednesday announced the arrest and impending deportation of seven Kenyan nationals found illegally working on processing refugee applications for the United States government. The incident ties into President Donald Trump's contentious initiative to resettle white South Africans in the U.S., citing racial persecution.

South Africa's government has strongly refuted the claims of persecution, a stance that could exacerbate already strained relations between Washington and Pretoria. A recent operation saw the arrest of the Kenyans, who entered on tourist visas without approval for work on U.S. refugee processing, sparking diplomatic unease.

The issue has prompted formal diplomatic engagements with both the U.S. and Kenyan governments. A State Department spokesperson labeled interference in their operations as unacceptable, demanding clarification from South Africa. The U.S. embassy and other involved parties have yet to provide further commentary.

(With inputs from agencies.)