US Expels South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool Amid Tensions

The United States has expelled South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, labeling him a ‘persona non grata’ due to his perceived hostility towards President Trump. The relationship between the two nations has worsened following Trump’s decision to cut US aid to South Africa, tied to disapproval of its land policies and actions against Israel at the International Court of Justice.

On Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador to the United States. Rubio characterized Rasool as a “race-baiting politician” who harbors animosity towards the United States and President Donald Trump. He stated, “South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States is no longer welcome in our great country.”

Rasool recently presented his credentials to former President Joe Biden on January 13, marking his return to Washington for a second term. The South African embassy did not provide immediate comments following the announcement from the US State Department.

Relations between the United States and South Africa have significantly deteriorated, particularly since President Trump reduced US financial aid to South Africa. This reduction was due to Trump’s disapproval of South Africa’s land reform policy and its International Court of Justice case accusing Israel of genocide.

The expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool from the United States underscores the growing tensions between the two nations. Secretary Rubio’s remarks reflect a firm stance against the South African ambassador, while the reduction of US aid signals a broader disagreement over South Africa’s policies. This situation highlights the challenges in US-South Africa diplomatic relations, exacerbated by differing political views and international legal actions.

Original Source: www.scmp.com