The United States has expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool after he made derogatory remarks concerning President Trump and supported Hamas. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated Rasool persona non grata. The South African government has expressed regret but aims to maintain relations with the U.S. Rasool’s pro-Hamas activities and anti-Israel stance have led to criticism from Israel and its allies.
The United States has expelled South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool following remarks made regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s alleged affiliation with a global white supremacist movement. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Rasool persona non grata, emphasizing the lack of willingness to engage with him in diplomatic discussions. The South African government expressed regret over the expulsion but maintained a desire to foster mutually beneficial relations with the United States.
Ambassador Rasool has been noted for his vocal support of the Hamas terrorist organization, which has called for the destruction of Israel. He reportedly owns a keffiyeh signed by a deceased Hamas leader and has made statements rejecting Israel’s existence. Furthermore, he has accused Israel of apartheid and aligns with movements that are anti-Zionist and anti-Jewish.
In addition to his stance against Israel, Rasool has encouraged relations with the Iranian regime and continues to support South Africa’s initiative at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to press charges against Israel. The South African government’s response to the Hamas attacks on Israel—which resulted in significant loss of life—has been to accuse Israel of starvation and genocide against Palestinians rather than condemning Hamas’s actions.
Recent reports have indicated that financial support from Iran undergirds South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the ICJ, while Israel has vigorously rejected these accusations. The Israeli government, alongside major European countries like Germany, has affirmed its right to defend itself following violent acts committed by Hamas. This is underscored in statements about the imperative of Israel’s self-defense in the wake of the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas.
In summary, the U.S. expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool highlights ongoing tension regarding South African support for Hamas and its stance on Israel. His controversial views and pro-Hamas advocacy have led to diplomatic friction, prompting the U.S. to sever relations. Consequently, the South African government’s responses reflect a commitment to its positions on international relations and the Israel-Palestine conflict, yet these positions have drawn international scrutiny and condemnation.
Original Source: allisrael.com
