South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S., Ebrahim Rasool, has been ordered to leave the country by Friday following controversial remarks about former President Donald Trump. The decision, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, signals growing tensions between Washington and Pretoria.
The expulsion follows Rasool’s statements in a webinar, where he accused Trump of “mobilizing a supremacism” and using “white victimhood as a dog whistle.” His remarks, made amid U.S. concerns over South Africa’s land reform policies, triggered swift backlash. The U.S. halted financial aid to South Africa, claiming unfair treatment of the white minority—a charge Pretoria firmly denies.
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce confirmed that Rasool’s diplomatic privileges lapsed on Monday, forcing his departure. “These remarks were unacceptable to the United States, not just to the president, but to every American,” Bruce stated. She emphasized the need for diplomats to foster, not damage, international relations.
A Diplomatic Rift Deepens
Rasool’s comments came at a time when U.S.-South Africa relations were already strained. The Biden administration had pressured Pretoria over its land reform policies, a contentious issue that has drawn global scrutiny. Washington argued that the policy unfairly targets white landowners, while South Africa maintains it seeks to correct historical injustices.
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Pretoria has pushed back against U.S. claims, calling them misleading and politically motivated. South Africa’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that Rasool remains in the U.S. but will leave “as soon as possible.” Officials in Pretoria are considering their next diplomatic move, but tensions remain high.
Political analysts warn that this expulsion could mark a shift in U.S.-South Africa relations. While both nations have enjoyed decades of diplomatic engagement, the latest controversy raises questions about future cooperation, particularly in trade and security partnerships.
What’s Next for U.S.-South Africa Relations?
The expulsion of an ambassador is a rare and severe diplomatic measure, often signaling a breakdown in communication. Experts believe this move could impact trade talks, foreign aid negotiations, and South Africa’s standing in Washington.
