The US has expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool over alleged anti-Trump remarks. Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled Rasool "persona non grata," escalating tensions between the two nations. The diplomatic fallout follows US criticism of South Africa’s land reform policies, which previously led to a suspension of aid.
The United States has expelled Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador, following comments deemed critical of former President Donald Trump. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision, branding Rasool a divisive figure who harbors hostility toward the US and its leadership.
The expulsion comes after Rasool, in a recent online discussion, accused Trump of fostering supremacist ideologies both domestically and globally. His remarks triggered a backlash from Washington, leading to his abrupt removal as a diplomat.
This development further strains relations between the US and South Africa, already tense due to disagreements over land reform policies. Earlier this year, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa enacted a controversial land redistribution law, which the US condemned as a violation of property rights. In response, Washington halted financial aid to Pretoria.
South African officials have attempted to mend diplomatic ties, but Rasool’s removal underscores the deepening divide. The South African government has yet to formally respond, but political analysts warn that this move could further disrupt economic and political cooperation between the two nations.
With tensions escalating, the focus now shifts to how both governments will navigate their strained relationship in the coming months.
