Washington, March 15, 2025 – The United States has expelled South Africa’s ambassador, Ibrahim Rasool, accusing him of hostility toward President Donald Trump and the U.S. government. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Rasool « persona non grata, » stating that the diplomat « fuels racial tensions and dislikes the U.S. and its president. »
South Africa’s government expressed regret over the decision, calling it « unfortunate » amid growing tensions between the two countries. In a statement, the South African presidency reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining mutually beneficial relations with the United States and urged all parties to uphold diplomatic decorum.
According to Pretoria’s Foreign Ministry, Rasool has been given 72 hours to leave the U.S.
