South Africa’s former ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, has accused the Trump administration of racism following his expulsion from the country last week. The 62-year-old diplomat was ordered to leave after Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled him a “race-baiting politician who hates America.”
Rasool’s removal came after he criticized President Donald Trump for allegedly using rhetoric that promotes “white victimhood as a dog whistle.” Speaking to the BBC’s Newshour program, Rasool stated, “I think it is self-evident rather than anyone needing to be called out.”
His comments have further strained US-South Africa relations, which have significantly deteriorated since Trump’s return to power in January. The US administration has denied allegations of racism, with Trump emphasizing his electoral mandate to deport thousands of undocumented migrants. Additionally, Secretary Rubio defended the revocation of student visas for individuals involved in pro-Palestinian protests, saying they were causing “chaos” on college campuses.
Trump’s foreign policy has been particularly harsh toward South Africa. He has cut all aid to the country while simultaneously extending refugee status to South Africa’s white Afrikaner community, citing their alleged persecution. Meanwhile, South Africa’s government continues to implement land reform policies aimed at correcting economic and racial imbalances inherited from the apartheid era.
Rasool has firmly rejected claims that white South Africans face discrimination. Addressing criticisms that his remarks were undiplomatic, he stated, “It’s not as if being a good boy warded off any punishment. At some point, South Africa’s dignity is also at stake—you can’t smile through too many untruths being told about your country.”
Upon his return to South Africa, Rasool was greeted with a hero’s welcome. Reflecting on his expulsion, he told the BBC, “Diplomacy is not about flattering your host into liking you. It is about telling the truth and ensuring integrity.”
Beyond land reform, another key issue straining relations is South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Trump’s administration has been vocal in opposing the case, further complicating diplomatic ties.
With both nations standing firm on their respective positions, US-South Africa relations remain at an all-time low.
