South Africa’s Ambassador to the U.S. Ordered to Leave Amid Tensions

Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador to the U.S., is ordered to depart by Friday after being declared “persona non grata” by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This expulsion follows his critical remarks about President Trump, amidst rising tensions due to South Africa’s stance in global conflicts and domestic legislation concerning property expropriation.

Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, has been ordered to leave the country by Friday. The South African Foreign Ministry confirmed that Rasool remains in the U.S. despite being declared “persona non grata” by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a significant action reflecting the serious diplomatic implications of his recent statements.

The expulsion follows Rasool’s remarks during an online lecture wherein he criticized President Donald Trump, attributing the President’s perceived disregard for the established global order to white supremacy. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce emphasized the expectations for respect in diplomatic relations, stating that Rasool did not meet these standards, thereby signaling the administration’s position on diplomatic conduct.

Tensions between the United States and South Africa have escalated as both countries align with opposing sides in the conflict between Hamas and Israel. South Africa has taken an active role in advocating against Israel through legal channels in the International Court of Justice, accusing the nation of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

The relationship has further deteriorated since President Trump condemned South Africa’s Expropriation Act, which facilitates the appropriation of private property without compensation, primarily affecting white farmers. The controversial legislation has resulted in violence against this demographic, with high-profile murders contributing to claims of ongoing injustice.

In summary, the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool highlights the deteriorating diplomatic relations between the United States and South Africa, driven by Rasool’s inflammatory comments about President Trump and broader geopolitical tensions over the Israel-Palestine conflict. This incident reflects the diplomatic standards expected by the U.S. administration and signifies the serious ramifications of adversarial relations in international diplomacy.

Original Source: www.washingtonexaminer.com