U.S. Orders South African Ambassador to Leave by Friday Amid Diplomatic Tensions
The U.S. State Department has declared South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, “persona non grata,” requiring him to leave the country by Friday. This decision was made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, following Rasool’s public remarks critical of the Trump administration. The situation highlights rising tensions between the U.S. and South Africa amid recent actions against the South African government.
The U.S. State Department has instructed South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, to leave the United States by Friday after he was designated “persona non grata.” This determination was announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and communicated to South African embassy representatives through an official diplomatic note. The State Department confirmed Rasool’s diplomatic privileges had expired on Monday, despite uncertainties regarding his current location.
Marco Rubio made the announcement via social media while returning from a Group of 7 meeting in Canada, referring to Rasool as a “race-baiting politician” with a disdain for President Donald Trump. His post linked to a Breitbart article featuring Rasool’s remarks at a webinar in Johannesburg, discussing the political dynamics of a changing demographic landscape in the United States.
While it is uncommon for the U.S. to expel an ambassador, this incident reflects ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and South Africa. Recently, Trump issued an executive order that terminated funding to South Africa, citing its government’s controversial policies perceived as anti-white and its alleged support of hostile groups like Hamas and Iran.
In response to Rasool’s expulsion, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office expressed dismay, urging officials to handle the situation with diplomatic respect. They reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to fostering a productive relationship with the United States.
The expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool represents a significant diplomatic action by the Trump administration, reflecting ongoing tensions with South Africa. As the U.S. continues to navigate its international relationships, the impact of this decision may have long-term implications for diplomatic engagement and cooperation between the two nations.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
