CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador who was recently expelled from the United States and deemed persona non grata by the Trump administration, was greeted with cheers and support from hundreds of well-wishers upon his return to his homeland on Sunday. A crowd gathered at Cape Town International Airport to express their solidarity, singing songs in his honor as he and his wife, Rosieda, made their way through the terminal with the assistance of a police escort.
Addressing the supporters through a megaphone, Rasool defiantly declared, “A declaration of persona non grata is intended to shame you, but when you are welcomed back with such warmth and support, I wear this label with pride.” He expressed gratitude for the reception, stating, “We did not choose to return, but we do so without regrets.”
Rasool emphasized the importance of repairing South Africa’s relationship with the U.S. following President Trump’s decision to impose sanctions on the country, accusing it of aligning with Hamas and Iran, as well as pursuing policies deemed anti-American and anti-white. Despite these allegations, Rasool clarified, “We are not against America, and we do not advocate severing ties with the United States.”
The former ambassador’s remarks marked his first public statement since being declared persona non grata by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The decision came after Rasool’s comments on the changing political landscape in the U.S., highlighting demographic shifts and policy changes under the Trump administration. Rasool reaffirmed his stance, noting that his observations were meant to alert South African leaders to the evolving dynamics in American politics.
Upon his return, Rasool reiterated his commitment to standing by his analysis and resisting external pressures, including from the U.S., on South Africa’s legal actions at the International Court of Justice.
Accusations of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza have been used by the Trump administration to criticize U.S. ally Israel, citing it as a reason for alleging that South Africa is anti-American. The story referenced by Senator Rubio regarding Rasool’s expulsion was penned by Joel Pollak, a South African-born senior editor and ally of the Trump administration. Pollak, who is Jewish, is also reportedly a candidate for the position of U.S. ambassador to South Africa. Upon Rasool’s return to Cape Town, supporters greeted him with Palestinian flags and calls for a free Palestine. Rasool expressed concern over the ongoing violence in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of South Africa’s role in exposing Israel’s actions through international legal channels. He highlighted the need to advocate for Palestinian rights while maintaining diplomatic relations with the United States and preserving national dignity. For more news on the Trump administration, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump
