The expelled South African envoy expresses no regrets upon returning home.

The South African ambassador expelled from the United States amid tensions with President Donald Trump’s administration received a spirited reception upon his return to Cape Town  today  March 23. 

Ebrahim Rasool, who faced removal from Washington due to allegations of being a divisive figure who opposes Trump, expressed a resolute stance in front of his supporters. 

He remarked, “It was not our choice to come home, but we come home with no regrets,” highlighting the circumstances surrounding his departure, which coincided with escalating diplomatic strains between the two nations. 

These tensions were exacerbated by Trump’s decision to cut financial aid to South Africa, linked to disagreements over land policies and international legal actions involving Israel. 

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Rasool’s expulsion was prompted by his characterization of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” campaign as a reactionary response to the nation’s increasing diversity.

As a former anti-apartheid activist, Rasool defended his statements, urging South African leaders to adapt their approach to the US, emphasizing that the current political landscape differs significantly from that of previous administrations. He asserted the necessity for a new dialogue that acknowledges the changing dynamics, particularly in light of Trump’s controversial remarks regarding land seizures in South Africa and his invitation to white farmers to relocate to the US.