The U.S. State Department ordered South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool to leave the country by Friday after declaring him “persona non grata.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited Rasool’s critical comments about Trump and accused him of racial politicking. This expulsion is part of a broader series of tensions between the U.S. and South Africa, as demonstrated by recent funding cuts and political accusations.
The U.S. State Department has formally declared South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, as “persona non grata,” mandating his departure by Friday. This decision, made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, was communicated to South African embassy staff through a formal diplomatic note.
The State Department stated, “We made the embassy aware that Ambassador Rasool has been found unacceptable by the United States to be a representative of his country.” Ambassador Rasool’s diplomatic privileges and immunities lapsed on Monday, necessitating his exit from the U.S. by the specified deadline, although his current location is unclear.
Secretary Rubio announced the expulsion on social media, describing Rasool as a “race-baiting politician” who harbors animosity toward former President Donald Trump. His remarks referenced Rasool’s participation in a webinar discussing demographics in the United States concerning white populations.
Typically, expulsions of foreign ambassadors from the U.S. are rare, with more common occurrences involving lower-ranking officials. This decision aligns with ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and South Africa, exemplified by a recent executive order from Trump that suspended funding to the nation, condemning its government and policies as anti-white.
In response to the expulsion, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office expressed regret and urged its officials to maintain diplomatic propriety concerning the issue. The statement reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with the United States.
The expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool marks a significant diplomatic action by the Trump administration, highlighting ongoing tensions between the U.S. and South Africa. This unusual decision underscores the impact of political rhetoric and international relations, as both nations navigate complicated diplomatic waters. It emphasizes the need for maintaining respectful engagement to foster beneficial bilateral relationships.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
