The United States has declared South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool persona non grata after he criticized President Trump’s policies and rhetoric.
In a significant diplomatic move, the United States has expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, declaring him persona non grata. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision, labeling Rasool a “race-baiting politician” who harbors animosity towards America and President Trump.
The expulsion follows remarks made by Rasool during a webinar organized by a South African think tank. In his talk, Rasool discussed demographic shifts in the U.S. and criticized the Trump administration’s actions, suggesting they were influenced by a “supremacist instinct.” He also commented on the global rise of nationalist movements, referencing figures like Elon Musk as part of this trend.
Relations between the U.S. and South Africa have been strained since President Trump’s return to office. The Trump administration has expressed concerns over South Africa’s land redistribution policies, alleging discrimination against white farmers. In response, Trump issued an executive order cutting aid to South Africa and offered expedited U.S. citizenship to Afrikaners, the white minority in South Africa.
The South African government has expressed regret over the expulsion, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a constructive relationship with the United States. A statement from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office noted the “regrettable” nature of the decision and called for diplomatic decorum in addressing the matter.
Ebrahim Rasool, a former anti-apartheid activist and politician, previously served as South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S. from 2010 to 2015 before returning to the post in January 2025. His expulsion marks a rare instance of the U.S. declaring a foreign ambassador persona non grata, underscoring the escalating tensions between the two nations.
This development adds to the growing list of diplomatic challenges facing the Trump administration, as it navigates complex international relationships amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
