U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expelled South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, branding him a “race-baiting politician” and stating he is unwelcome due to his views against Trump. This action coincides with strained U.S.-South Africa relations after Trump cut financial aid, criticizing South Africa’s land policy and its legal case against Israel.

On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s ambassador to the U.S., persona non grata, citing that he is a “race-baiting politician” who harbors animosity towards the U.S. and President Donald Trump. Rubio’s statement clearly indicated a break in diplomatic relations, asserting, “South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States is no longer welcome in our great country.”

Ebrahim Rasool’s tenure began when he presented his credentials to former President Joe Biden on January 13. This marks Rasool’s second term in Washington, as noted by the South African embassy’s official website. The diplomatic relationship has faced scrutiny in light of recent developments.

The relationship between the U.S. and South Africa has worsened since Trump withdrew financial aid to the country. The withdrawal stemmed from the U.S. disapproving of South Africa’s land policy and a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, which is perceived as an ally of the U.S.

The expulsion of South African ambassador Ebrahim Rasool underscores the declining diplomatic relations between the United States and South Africa. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s strong statements against Rasool highlight underlying tensions linked to U.S. financial aid policies and South Africa’s international legal actions. Overall, these events mark a significant shift in the diplomatic landscape.

Original Source: www.scmp.com