As of March 15, 2025, there is no credible information indicating that South Africa has expelled the U.S. ambassador or issued a 72-hour expulsion deadline. However, diplomatic tensions have escalated following the United States’ decision to expel South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared Rasool “persona non grata,” accusing him of being a “race-baiting politician” who harbors animosity towards America and President Trump.
This action stems from Rasool’s recent criticisms of President Trump’s policies, which he described as promoting white supremacy. Additionally, the Trump administration has expressed disapproval of South Africa’s land expropriation policies and its legal actions against Israel at the International Court of Justice, further straining bilateral relations.
In response, South Africa’s presidency expressed regret over the expulsion but reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a mutually beneficial relationship with the United States. As of now, there has been no official statement from South Africa regarding any reciprocal measures, such as the expulsion of the U.S. ambassador.
