The Trump administration has ordered South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool to leave the U.S. by Friday after designating him “persona non grata” due to alleged hostility towards President Trump. This action is part of ongoing tensions between the two nations, which includes critiques of South Africa’s domestic policies.
The State Department has mandated that South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, leave the country by Friday due to his designation as “persona non grata.” This determination was made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who announced the decision via social media following a diplomatic note delivered to the South African embassy.
Rubio criticized Rasool as a “race-baiting politician” who is hostile towards President Donald Trump. His remarks were made while returning from a Group of 7 meeting in Canada, which coincided with Rasool’s remarks during a webinar in Johannesburg.
The expulsion of an ambassador is unusual and typically, lower-ranking diplomats receive such treatment. Rasool’s diplomatic privileges have reportedly lapsed, leaving uncertainty regarding his current location. This expulsion aligns with previous actions by the Trump administration against South Africa, including an executive order restricting funding and criticizing the South African government’s policies.
In response, the office of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa issued a statement expressing disappointment over Rasool’s expulsion and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a positive relationship with the United States. The situation reflects ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
In summary, the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool by the Trump administration marks a significant diplomatic action, emphasizing tensions between the United States and South Africa. The ambassador’s comments and Rubio’s criticism underscore the contentious political climate, while South Africa has expressed regret over this decision, aiming to maintain a cooperative bilateral relationship.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
