The Trump administration expelled South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, emphasizing disrespectful comments towards the U.S. and its allies. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce highlighted ongoing concerns over South Africa’s relations with Iran and less favorable actions towards Israel. South Africa expressed disappointment while reaffirming its commitment to a constructive relationship with the U.S.
On Monday, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce announced that South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, has been declared a “persona non grata.” Following the expulsion ordered by the Trump administration, Bruce stated Rasool must leave by Friday, emphasizing that this action relates to more than mere decorum.
Bruce referred to South Africa’s improved ties with Iran for military and nuclear development and noted its recent hostile stance towards the U.S. and allies, including accusations against Israel regarding genocide. She asserted, “This is a matter of a nation that is taking steps that are not in the best interests of providing a safe, secure, more prosperous America.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized Rasool as a “race-baiting politician who hates America” in a social media post. This remark was linked to an article from Breitbart highlighting the ambassador’s criticism of President Trump. Bruce remarked on the importance of maintaining respectful relations, declaring the ambassador’s comments “unacceptable” and “pretty obscene.”
In February, President Trump had signed an executive order recognizing the Afrikaner minority in South Africa as “victims of unjust racial discrimination,” subsequently halting U.S. assistance to the country and prioritizing Afrikaner resettlement in the United States. Bruce stated that U.S. policy aims to promote positive change in South Africa, focusing on creating better living conditions rather than punitive measures.
In response to Rasool’s expulsion, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office expressed discontent but also emphasized their commitment to maintaining a constructive partnership with the United States, seeking to ensure diplomatic decorum in future engagements.
In summary, the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador underscores the tension between South Africa and the United States, particularly in light of diplomatic decorum and political discourse. The U.S. aims to encourage positive change in South Africa while expressing concerns over the ambassador’s past remarks. The South African government, for its part, remains dedicated to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship despite this setback.
Original Source: mynews13.com
