Sat Mar 15 11:30:25 UTC 2025: ## US Expels South African Ambassador Amidst Heightened Tensions
**Washington D.C./Pretoria** – The United States has expelled South Africa’s ambassador to the US, Ebrahim Rasool, sparking a diplomatic row between the two nations. US Senator Marco Rubio declared Rasool “persona non grata,” citing comments critical of former President Donald Trump and alleging he is a “race-baiting politician” who “hates the US.”
Rubio’s announcement, made via X (formerly Twitter), followed a Breitbart article quoting Rasool’s criticism of Trump’s 2024 election strategy. However, South African political analyst Sandile Swana suggests the expulsion stems from deeper disagreements, particularly South Africa’s pursuit of a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. This action, Swana argues, directly challenges US interests given its close alliance with Israel.
The expulsion comes at a time of already strained relations. Former President Trump previously cut financial aid to South Africa, criticizing its land reform policy, which he claimed unfairly targeted white farmers. He even offered US residency to these farmers last week. This rhetoric has been echoed by Elon Musk, a prominent South African-born businessman and Trump ally.
South Africa’s presidency expressed regret over the expulsion, emphasizing its commitment to building a positive relationship with the US while urging all parties to maintain diplomatic decorum. Ambassador Rasool, a prominent anti-apartheid activist, has previously drawn parallels between apartheid and the situation in Palestine, further fueling tensions. The dispute highlights underlying disagreements over historical alliances, human rights, and land reform policies.
First Piper 