In a rare diplomatic move, the US has expelled South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool.
The United States openly labeled Rasool of being hostile toward America and President Donald Trump.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio didn’t hold back, labeling Rasool a “race-baiting politician” and declaring him persona non grata.
South Africa Responds
The South African government called the decision “regrettable” and urged both sides to maintain diplomatic decorum.
But beneath the formal statements, tensions between Washington and Pretoria have been steadily escalating.
Just last month, Trump froze US aid to South Africa, citing concerns over land reforms that he claims unfairly target white farmers.
Trump Offers US Citizenship
Trump has since gone a step further, offering South African farmers a fast-track to US citizenship, a move that has only deepened divisions.
Meanwhile, billionaire Elon Musk—who was born in South Africa—has weighed in, calling the country’s land policies “openly racist.”
Rasool’s expulsion appears to be the latest flashpoint in this fraught relationship.
His recent remarks about Trump’s Make America Great Again movement being fueled by white supremacy seem to have been the final straw.
