Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool persona non grata after Rasool’s criticism of Donald Trump during a forum. This reflects growing tensions in U.S.-South Africa relations, exacerbated by Trump’s administration cutting off aid due to criticism of Israel and land expropriation laws in South Africa.
Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador to the United States, has been declared persona non grata by Secretary of State Marco Rubio following his criticism of former President Donald Trump. Rubio stated, “South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States is no longer welcome in our great country,” branding Rasool as “a race-baiting politician who hates America” and asserting that there is nothing left to discuss with him.
Rasool’s controversial remarks were made during a recent panel at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection. He addressed the global rise of right-wing movements related to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign, suggesting it resonates with the fears of white communities. “It may not be true, it may not make sense, but that is not the dog whistle that is being heard in a global, white base,” Rasool commented.
Previously serving under President Obama, Rasool has faced obstacles in securing meetings with Trump administration officials and high-ranking Republicans, primarily due to his Muslim heritage and pro-Palestinian stance. A South African diplomat indicated that his current position in the U.S. may be challenging, given the prevailing political climate.
The announcement reflects the worsening relations between the U.S. and South Africa, aggravated by recent U.S. aid cuts in response to accusations of genocide against Israel made by South Africa. The Trump administration’s disapproval regarding South Africa’s land expropriation laws, seen as discriminatory against white Afrikaners, has also contributed to deteriorating ties. South Africa has signaled intentions to increase domestic health spending while decreasing reliance on U.S. aid, crucial for managing its HIV population.
The announcement of Ebrahim Rasool as persona non grata marks a significant diplomatic rift between the United States and South Africa. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s actions reflect ongoing tensions stemming from Rasool’s comments on right-wing movements and U.S. foreign aid policies. As the relationship continues to deteriorate, the implications for international diplomatic interactions and health initiatives in South Africa remain profound.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
