Ebrahim Rasool, the South African ambassador recently expelled from the United States, has returned to Cape Town, receiving a warm welcome from supporters. The expulsion, enacted by the Trump administration, was reportedly due to Rasool's alleged anti-American stances and support for groups such as Hamas, as well as policies perceived as anti-white.
Upon his arrival, Rasool addressed the gathered crowd, stating that he would wear the U.S. sanction as a "badge of dignity." He emphasized the importance of maintaining relationships with the U.S. but defended his previous comments regarding demographic changes and political shifts in the U.S., describing them as analytical rather than antagonistic.
Rasool also highlighted South Africa's commitment to pursuing a case against Israel for alleged genocide at the International Court of Justice, despite opposition from the U.S. Supporters at the airport demonstrated solidarity with Palestine by waving flags and chanting. Rasool's return underscores the complexities of international diplomacy and the challenges faced by envoys navigating geopolitical tensions.