United States Expels South Africa’s Ambassador for Hamas Support
The U.S. has expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool due to his inflammatory remarks against President Trump and his support for Hamas. Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled him persona non grata, citing his hostility. The South African government expressed regret while Rasool’s actions and statements highlight ongoing tensions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The United States has officially expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool following remarks he made alleging that U.S. President Donald Trump is “leading a global white supremacist” movement. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Rasool persona non grata, stating, “South Africa’s Ambassador to the United States is no longer welcome in our great country.” Rubio further criticized the ambassador for his apparent hostility toward both Trump and the United States itself.
In response to the expulsion, the South African government expressed regret and emphasized the desire for mutually beneficial relations with the U.S. Chrispin Phiri, a spokesperson for South Africa’s Department of International Relations, indicated that the government would seek engagement through diplomatic channels.
Rasool has garnered attention for his vocal support of the Hamas organization, known for its calls for Israel’s destruction. He has claimed to own a keffiyeh signed by the late Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh, and has publicly rejected Israel’s existence, asserting, “I do not support Israel as ‘Jewish’ just as I do not support any religiously exclusive state.”
The ambassador has accused Israel of engaging in “apartheid” and has been an outspoken proponent of anti-Zionist sentiments. Additionally, Rasool has fostered ties with Iran and is involved in South Africa’s legal actions against Israel regarding accusations of genocide at international legal forums.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the South African government has refrained from condemning recent attacks by Hamas, including the massacre of 1,200 Israelis on October 7, 2023. Instead, the focus has been on accusations against Israel related to the humanitarian situation in Gaza during its recent military conflict termed the Iron Swords War.
A report released in November 2024 linked Iranian financial support to South Africa’s genocide allegations against Israel. The Israeli government has vehemently denied these accusations, asserting its right to defend itself against terrorism. Both the United States and major European nations, including Germany, have rejected South Africa’s claims, highlighting the brutality of the Hamas attack on October 7.
In summary, the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool from the United States underscores the strained relations between the U.S. and South Africa regarding diplomatic representation. Rasool’s support for Hamas and accusations against Israel have elicited strong reactions from both American and Israeli officials. The situation reflects international tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with various nations illustrating differing perspectives on such issues.
Original Source: allisrael.com
