Expelled and Celebrated: Why Ebrahim Rasool Was Declared Persona Non Grata by the US
Ebrahim Rasool, South Africa’s former ambassador to the United States, was thrust into global headlines after being declared persona non grata by the Trump administration and expelled from the US. His sudden return to Cape Town, where he was met by hundreds of supporters singing his praises, marked the dramatic end of his diplomatic tenure in Washington.
Who is Ebrahim Rasool?
Ebrahim Rasool, 61, is a prominent South African politician and diplomat known for his role in the anti-apartheid struggle and his service as the Premier of the Western Cape from 2004 to 2008. He later served as South Africa’s ambassador to the United States from 2010 to 2015. Rasool is respected for his work on promoting tolerance and dialogue between communities, both locally and globally.
Why Was Rasool Declared Persona Non Grata?
Rasool was expelled from the US after the Trump administration accused South Africa of supporting Hamas and Iran while pursuing “anti-white policies” domestically. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Rasool’s status as persona non grata in a scathing post on X (formerly Twitter) on March 14, 2025. Rubio described Rasool as a “race-baiting politician” who was hostile toward the US and the Trump administration.
The expulsion was reportedly triggered by a webinar Rasool participated in, where he spoke critically about Trump’s policies on diversity, immigration, and equity. A conservative media outlet, Breitbart, highlighted Rasool’s comments, which led to intense scrutiny from right-wing factions in the US.
US Accusations and Trump’s Executive Order
The situation escalated after Donald Trump issued an executive order cutting all funding to South Africa. Trump’s administration claimed that South Africa’s government was taking an anti-American stance by aligning with militant groups and adopting policies deemed hostile to white citizens.
Public Reception and Rasool’s Return to South Africa
Upon returning to Cape Town, Rasool was met with a hero’s welcome. Supporters filled the arrivals hall, singing songs of praise and standing in solidarity with him. Rasool acknowledged the warm reception and called on South Africa to work toward mending its damaged relationship with the United States.
What’s Next for Ebrahim Rasool?
While Rasool’s diplomatic career in the US has ended abruptly, his influence in South African politics remains strong. He is expected to continue his advocacy for diversity, equity, and human rights while focusing on repairing international relations.
