In a climate of heightening diplomatic tensions, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has voiced serious concerns regarding the recent expulsion of South African Ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool.

Emma Louise Powell Diaz, the DA’s National Spokesperson on International Relations, described the situation as “deeply unfortunate,” urging the South African government to act swiftly to stabilise relations with one of its largest trade partners.

“The expulsion of Ambassador Rasool is a significant setback in our diplomatic relations with the United States,” Powell Diaz stated.

“We call on the presidency to expedite the formation of a Government of National Unity (GNU) delegation to Washington, D.C. This delegation must be tasked with negotiating a pathway to restore and stabilise our diplomatic ties.”

The tensions between the two nations have been escalating over various geopolitical issues, including South Africa's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and broader discussions on trade and investment.

The DA’s call for urgent diplomatic engagement comes amid fears that continued deterioration could have severe implications for South Africa’s economy, especially given the critical role the U.S. plays in trade and foreign investment.

International analysts have weighed in on the situation, highlighting the complexities of US-South Africa relations.

Dr. Mark Henderson, a prominent political analyst and author, noted in an article for The Global Review that “the expulsion signals a broader shift in US foreign policy towards nations it perceives as straying from its strategic interests.”

He emphasised that the US administration is keen on aligning its international partnerships with its geopolitical goals, particularly in light of rising tensions in Eastern Europe and Africa.

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Similarly, Dr. Aisha Khan, a senior fellow at the Institute for International Relations, commented in The Foreign Affairs Journal that “the recent developments reflect a growing frustration within the US regarding South Africa’s ambiguous stance on key global issues.”

She warned that unless there is a concerted effort for dialogue, the diplomatic rift could widen, leading to detrimental consequences for both nations.

Meanwhile, Kallie Kriel, CEO of AfriForum, expressed grave concerns about the implications of Rasool’s expulsion, stating, “This is proof that the ANC’s diplomatic gamble is failing and will cost the country and its people dearly.”

Kriel said he holds the ANC and Rasool accountable for what he describes as a diplomatic blunder that threatens the nation’s international relations, particularly with a key ally like the United States.

Rasool’s expulsion followed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying that South Africa's ambassador to Washington is "no longer welcome" in the US.

In a post to X, Rubio accused diplomat Ebrahim Rasool of being a "race-baiting politician" who hated US President Donald Trump after remarks made by Rasool on Friday during a South African think tank's Mistra webinar.

The South African government called the US actions regrettable and urged all relevant and impacted stakeholders to maintain the established diplomatic decorum in their engagement with the matter.

thabo.makwakwa@iol.co.za

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DA calls for urgent dialogue following US expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool