U.S. Orders South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool to Leave by Friday

The U.S. State Department ordered South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool to leave the U.S. by Friday after declaring him persona non grata, citing accusations from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This decision is part of ongoing diplomatic tensions between the Trump administration and South Africa, particularly regarding race and policy disagreements.

The U.S. State Department has ordered South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, to leave the country by Friday after declaring him persona non grata. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced this decision following a meeting with Group of 7 foreign ministers. The announcement was shared on social media, indicating Rasool is no longer acceptable as a diplomatic representative.

The expulsion is based on accusations made against Rasool, whom Rubio labeled a “race-baiting politician” hostile towards President Donald Trump. This decision was accompanied by a formal diplomatic notification to the South African embassy, emphasizing that Rasool’s diplomatic privileges had expired.

Rubio’s post on social media referenced remarks made by Rasool during a webinar in Johannesburg. These comments criticized Trump administration policies and suggested significant demographic changes in the U.S. Ramaphosa’s administration described Rasool’s expulsion as regrettable and urged the maintenance of diplomatic decorum in future relations.

It is uncommon for the U.S. to expel a foreign ambassador, with such actions typically affecting lower-ranking diplomats. The Trump administration has previously taken various stances against South Africa, including a recent executive order that halted funding to the nation over its perceived anti-white policies.

The South African President’s office has expressed a commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the U.S., despite the tensions surrounding Rasool’s exit. This incident underscores ongoing diplomatic strains between the Trump administration and South African leadership regarding racial and political issues.

In summary, the U.S. State Department’s decision to expel South Africa’s ambassador Ebrahim Rasool highlights significant diplomatic tensions stemming from perceived political hostility. Rubio’s comments regarding Rasool’s alleged views reflect a broader criticism of South African policies. This situation also emphasizes the rarity of ambassador expulsions, marking a distinct escalation in U.S.-South Africa relations under the Trump administration. South Africa’s leadership remains focused on preservation of diplomatic engagement despite these challenges.

Original Source: www.newsday.com