US Expels South African Ambassador Amid Rising Diplomatic Tensions
Washington, D.C. – The United States has expelled South Africa’s ambassador to Washington, Ebrahim Rasool, in a rare diplomatic move. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision on Friday, accusing the envoy of hostility towards the U.S. and President Donald Trump.
Key Developments:
- Official Statement: Rubio declared on social media platform X that Rasool is “no longer welcome in our great country.”
- Accusations Against Rasool: The Secretary of State labeled the ambassador as “a race-baiting politician who hates America and hates POTUS,” referring to Trump’s official account.
- Designation as Persona Non Grata: The expulsion formally marks Rasool as persona non grata, effectively barring him from diplomatic engagement in the U.S.
Context and Diplomatic Tensions:
- Strained US-South Africa Relations: The move escalates growing tensions between Washington and Pretoria.
- Trump’s Aid Freeze: In February, Trump suspended U.S. aid to South Africa, citing concerns over a land reform law that he claims enables land seizures from white farmers.
- South Africa’s Response: Pretoria has yet to issue an official response to the expulsion, but the decision is likely to exacerbate diplomatic friction.
The expulsion of Ambassador Rasool underscores worsening U.S.-South Africa relations, with tensions fueled by policy disagreements and political rhetoric. The diplomatic fallout remains uncertain as Pretoria weighs its next steps in response to Washington’s latest action.
