U.S. Expels South Africa’s Ambassador Amid Heightened Tensions

WASHINGTON (AP) — Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Friday that South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, is no longer welcome in the country. This decision follows Rasool’s controversial comments on U.S. political dynamics during a webinar, marking a significant escalation in U.S.-South Africa relations.

Rubio’s declaration of Rasool as ‘persona non grata’ comes amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Pretoria, particularly surrounding U.S. criticisms of South Africa’s land reform policies. Rubio posted his announcement on X while returning from a Group of 7 foreign ministers meeting in Canada, accusing Rasool of being a ‘race-baiting politician’ who disdains President Donald Trump.

Rasool’s remarks during the webinar included analyses of demographic changes in the U.S. and criticized the Trump administration’s stances on diversity and immigration. He stated, ‘The supremacist assault on incumbency, we see it in the domestic politics of the U.S.A.’ He warned against antagonizing the U.S. but described the societal pressures affecting minority populations in America.

In response to Rubio’s announcement, the South African presidency issued a statement acknowledging the ‘regrettable expulsion’ of Rasool and urged diplomatic officials to maintain decorum. ‘South Africa remains committed to building a mutually beneficial relationship with the United States,’ the statement read.

This expulsion is rare for a foreign ambassador and reflects the strained relationship between the two nations, which has seen increasing friction under the Trump administration. Notably, Trump had previously criticized South Africa’s government for alleged discrimination against white farmers in light of new land reform laws.

Rasool, who served as South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S. from 2010 to 2015 before returning in January, has a history of advocacy against apartheid. He was imprisoned for his activism and aligned with the African National Congress, the party of Nelson Mandela.

South African officials have expressed concerns regarding Trump’s claims about land reform laws which, according to them, aim to rectify historical injustices. These laws allow the government to expropriate land under certain conditions, primarily for public benefit, and are not aimed specifically at targeting any racial group.

This diplomatic fallout coincides with remarks from both Trump and South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, who have framed the land reform laws as threats to minority interests. Musk, a supporter of Trump, has voiced discontent with the South African government regarding business decisions impacting his ventures.

As tensions continue to rise over these developments, the diplomatic community is closely monitoring the situation, particularly as both countries navigate a complex history that has evolved since the end of apartheid.