Diplomatic relations between the U.S. and South Africa face a significant challenge as the Trump administration expels South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, declaring him persona non grata.
Key Takeaways
- South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool was ordered to leave the U.S. by Friday.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited Rasool’s remarks as the reason for his expulsion.
- Relations between the U.S. and South Africa have been strained by broader tensions, including the halting of funding.
- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized rebuilding relations with the U.S.
- Rubio announced the expulsion on social media after a G7 meeting.
Ambassador Expelled from U.S.
South Africa’s Ambassador to the U.S. Ebrahim Rasool has been declared “persona non grata” by the Trump administration and has until Friday to leave the country. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the expulsion, linking it to Rasool’s disparaging comments about U.S. racial demographics.
Rasool’s diplomatic privileges and immunities expired earlier this week, signaling an immediate need for his departure. The declaration follows accusations against Rasool of using unfavorable rhetoric concerning the Trump administration and racial policies in the U.S. The expulsion underscores a rare and serious diplomatic action by the U.S. government.
America kicks out South Africa’s ambassador, declaring him unwelcome and PERSONA NON GRATA.
His alleged crime is criticising the Trump administration, so much for free speech.
You are free before you speak, but your freedom is not guaranteed after you speak.Imagine being an… https://t.co/WpitVEEFVi
— Hopewell Chin’ono (@daddyhope) March 15, 2025
Broader Context of Tensions
The expulsion is not an isolated incident. It is part of broader diplomatic tensions between the Trump administration and South Africa. An executive order from the Trump administration recently halted funding to South Africa, citing concerns over perceived anti-white policies and alliances with controversial groups. While these developments unfold, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the situation, as he works towards mending ties with the U.S. “This is a hiccup, a hiccup we are working on straightening out,” said Ramaphosa.
South African authorities remain concerned about the manner of the expulsion announcement, which was made public on social media before any formal diplomatic communication. The South African Foreign Ministry expressed unease about the use of non-traditional channels for significant diplomatic communications.
Future Implications and Reactions
The expulsion carries potential implications for future diplomatic engagements between the two countries. Efforts are expected to prevent further deterioration in relations. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized maintaining diplomatic decorum and a constructive relationship with the U.S., despite the current setback.
Rasool’s exact whereabouts remain unclear, raising questions about his next move. The Trump administration’s actions, including a social media declaration from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have intensified the diplomatic spotlight on U.S.-South Africa relations.
Sources
1. Trump administration says South African ambassador has to leave the US by Friday
2. Trump administration says South African ambassador has to leave the U.S. by Friday
