Ebrahim Rasool, the expelled South African ambassador, received a hero’s welcome upon his return home. He declared the U.S. sanction a ‘badge of dignity’ and expressed the need to mend relations with the United States while standing firm on issues regarding Palestine. Rasool’s remarks reflect his views on changing political dynamics in America and affirm South Africa’s commitment to international justice.
Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador expelled by the Trump administration, returned to South Africa to a warm reception from hundreds of supporters at Cape Town International Airport. The crowd celebrated his return with songs and applause, necessitating police assistance for Rasool and his wife to navigate through the throngs of well-wishers.
Rasool addressed the audience, declaring, “A declaration of persona non grata is meant to humiliate you. But when you return to crowds like this… I will wear my persona non grata as a badge of dignity.” He expressed no regrets about his expulsion and emphasized the need to mend South Africa’s relations with the United States following the punitive measures taken by President Trump.
The U.S. president accused South Africa of fostering anti-American sentiments and supporting Hamas and Iran, leading to an executive order that cut all funding to the nation. Rasool countered this claim stating, “We don’t come here to say we are anti-American… nor do we call on you to throw away our interests with the United States.”
Rasool asserted his support for his prior remarks, which were deemed controversial by the Trump administration. He stated that his comments were aimed at raising awareness of the changing political landscape in the U.S. rather than attacking the country itself. Furthermore, he made it clear that South Africa would not yield to external pressures regarding its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
He reiterated his commitment to Palestinian support, proclaiming, “We cannot sacrifice the Palestinians… but we will also not give up our relationship with the United States.” His return highlighted not only the political tensions but also the strong sentiments surrounding the issue of Palestinian rights among his supporters, who waved flags and chanted calls for liberation.
Ebrahim Rasool’s return to South Africa following his expulsion from the United States was marked by considerable fanfare and support. His resolve to wear the U.S. sanction as a badge of dignity signifies his steadfastness in advocating for Palestinian rights while simultaneously expressing the desire to maintain a positive relationship with the United States. This incident underscores the complexities of international diplomacy and national identity in current geopolitical contexts.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
