Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared South African Ambassador Embrahim Rasool persona non grata, citing his anti-American remarks linked to Trump’s policies. Rubio condemned Rasool’s statements regarding the MAGA movement, while tensions rise over South Africa’s controversial land expropriation law. Trump’s executive order highlights U.S. discontent with South Africa’s policies and supports Afrikaner refugees facing discrimination.
On Friday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared South African Ambassador Embrahim Rasool persona non grata in the United States, branding him a “race-baiting” politician who harbors animosity towards America and President Donald Trump. This decision followed Ambassador Rasool’s remarks criticizing Trump’s Make America Great Again movement, asserting it reflects a reaction to demographic changes in the United States and promotes white supremacy.
During a speech at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, Rasool stated that Trump’s policies signify an assault on incumbency, which involves mobilizing supremacist ideologies. He argued that the MAGA movement’s rise correlates with notable demographic shifts, predicting that the U.S. electorate would become increasingly diverse.
Reacting strongly on social media, Rubio announced, “South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States is no longer welcome in our great country.” He emphasized that Rasool is not someone with whom the U.S. government can engage, hence declaring him persona non grata.
The friction between the U.S. and South Africa has been exacerbated by a controversial land expropriation law, allowing the South African government to seize land without compensation. Trump had previously issued an executive order penalizing South Africa for this legislation, condemning violations of citizens’ rights and endorsing the resettlement of Afrikaner refugees facing discrimination.
Trump’s executive order emphasizes that until South Africa addresses these unjust practices, the United States will withhold aid and support for South African actions undermining U.S. foreign policy, including relations with Israel and Iran. The South African government has defended the expropriation law, asserting that it intends to ensure fair compensation and is only aimed at land necessary for public purposes.
The proclamation by Secretary Marco Rubio against Ambassador Embrahim Rasool underscores the tension in U.S.-South Africa relations, particularly regarding land expropriation issues and accusations of racial discrimination. Rubio’s statement reflects broader concerns about foreign policies perceived as undermining U.S. interests and relationships with allies. The situation illustrates the complexities surrounding diplomatic discourse and the implications of domestic policies on international relations.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
