Ambassador from South Africa Must Depart US by Friday, According to State Department

March 17, 2025 TruthUSA

The State Department has set a Friday deadline for South Africa’s ambassador to leave the United States.

According to officials, Ebrahim Rasool’s diplomatic privileges and immunities in the U.S. expired on Monday.

During a Monday briefing, State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce stated, “He’s had his privileges, but those did expire today. Technically, he has a week from the notice, so that now expires on Friday.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Rasool “persona non grata” (PNG) after his controversial comments about President Donald Trump. This declaration prohibits Rasool from entering the U.S. and revokes his privileges.

The State Department immediately summoned South African embassy staff to formally inform them of Rasool’s removal.

Rasool criticized Trump during a video conference with a South African think tank, alleging that the president was leading a white supremacist movement. Rasool also criticized Elon Musk and questioned his involvement in other countries’ affairs.

Rubio issued a statement on X denouncing Rasool as a “race-baiting” politician who despises Trump.

The State Department explained Rubio’s decision, emphasizing that it was not about criticism but about the serious allegations made against the president.

President Trump signed an executive order in February halting aid to South Africa due to alleged human rights violations. The White House accused South Africa of siding with terrorists and opposing the U.S. and its allies.

A White House fact sheet highlighted various instances where South Africa’s actions were seen as detrimental to U.S. interests.

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed regret over Rubio’s decision and affirmed his commitment to fostering a positive relationship with the U.S.

Ramaphosa’s office issued a statement urging all stakeholders to maintain diplomatic decorum in handling the situation.

South African Foreign Ministry spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed that Rasool would be leaving the U.S. soon.

While lower-ranking diplomats are more commonly targeted with PNG status, it is uncommon for the U.S. to expel a foreign ambassador.

Rasool previously served as the South African Ambassador to the U.S. from 2010 to 2015 and again this year. He also held other political positions before his diplomatic role.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

From NTD News

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