Ebrahim Rasool’s Expulsion Exposes America’s Hypocrisy in Diplomacy

South Africa has found itself at the centre of an unwarranted diplomatic storm following the expulsion of its ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool. The move by the US government has been widely criticised as hypocritical, especially in light of previous false accusations made by former US ambassador Reuben Brigety against South Africa. This incident underscores the double standards in American diplomacy and raises questions about the future of US-South Africa relations.

The Lady R Controversy

The diplomatic tension between the two nations began in December 2022 when the Russian vessel Lady R docked at the Simon’s Town naval base. Reuben Brigety, then US ambassador to South Africa, falsely claimed that weapons and ammunition were loaded onto the ship, suggesting that South Africa was arming Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. These allegations caused significant panic and forced the South African government to establish an inquiry led by Judge Phineas Mojapelo to investigate the claims.

The inquiry found no evidence to support Brigety’s accusations, but by then, the damage to South Africa’s reputation had already been done. Despite the findings, neither Brigety nor the US government issued a public apology. Brigety completed his tenure as ambassador without being held accountable for the harm caused by his false claims.

Double Standards in Diplomacy

The expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool over his comments about the Trump administration’s “supremacist agenda” highlights the hypocrisy of the US government. While Rasool’s remarks were critical, they pale in comparison to Brigety’s unfounded allegations, which had far-reaching consequences for South Africa’s international standing. This disparity reveals how the US government views African nations and their representatives.

The US has also faced criticism for its support of Israel in the Gaza conflict, where American weapons have been used in actions described by many as genocidal. Yet, neither Brigety nor the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa’s official opposition party at the time, raised concerns about this. Instead, they focused on amplifying Brigety’s false claims about South Africa’s alleged involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

A Warning for South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa should take note of the US government’s actions as he considers sending a new envoy to Washington. The expulsion of Rasool suggests that the US will not hesitate to embarrass South African diplomats if it serves their interests. This incident is part of a broader pattern of strained relations, including the US snubbing G20 meetings in South Africa, withdrawing funding from critical HIV/AIDS programmes, and potentially removing South Africa from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

These actions indicate that the US is willing to use its diplomatic and economic power to pressure South Africa into compliance. As such, the South African government must begin planning for a future without American support if it wishes to uphold its sovereignty and pursue an independent foreign policy.

The expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool has exposed the hypocrisy and double standards inherent in US diplomacy. While South Africa has been held to account for unfounded allegations, the US continues to act with impunity on the global stage. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by African nations in maintaining their sovereignty in an unequal international system. As South Africa navigates this diplomatic crisis, it must remain steadfast in its commitment to justice, equality, and independence.

{Sourced IOL }

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