### Diplomacy to the test: the case of the non-renewal of the ambassador Ebrahim Rasool
**Introduction**
In a context where international diplomacy is exacerbated by internal political tensions and global economic issues, the recent decision of the United States to expel the South African ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, raises many questions. Beyond the exceptional nature of this decision, it is essential to analyze the broader implications of this conflict, both in terms of bilateral relations and on that of the social and historical issues that underpin South African policy.
** A fragile diplomatic context **
The expulsion of Rasool, following the criticisms he made against the Trump administration, marks a turning point in relations between South Africa and the United States. The use by the Secretary of State Marco Rubio of the term “breed-bailing” to qualify Rasool only strengthens the stereotypes and the divisions that already exist in American political discourse. This incident does not only reveal inter-racial tensions in the United States, but also highlights the corrosive effects that such declarations can have on diplomatic relations.
** Stories of a colonial and post-colonial past **
Tensions between the United States and South Africa are not new. They are part of a long heritage of racial inequalities. The current dispute over agrarian reform in South Africa, which aims to correct the historical injustices of apartheid, resonates with the discourse on repairs and the social justice that emerge in several countries, notably the United States. The accusations brought by Trump concerning discrimination against the white minority in South Africa seem to be biting irony when they are placed in the context of colonial and post-colonial history.
The agrarian reform in South Africa, adopted to redress the historical inequalities exacerbated by the apartheid regime, is perceived by some as a threat, while others see it as a necessary social progress. The figures are eloquent: around 70% of agricultural land in South Africa are still held by descendants of white settlers, while the majority of black and mixed populations live in precarious economic conditions. This imbalance demonstrates an urgent need to reform land ownership.
** Economic implications **
The effect of this expulsion could also influence foreign investments in South Africa. On the one hand, this could dissuade certain investors, worried about the political instability that this could generate. On the other hand, this situation could also provide the ANC (African National Congress), the ruling party, an opportunity to strengthen its story around social justice and the redistribution of land.
Studies have shown that poorly designed agrarian reforms can have harmful consequences on agricultural productivity; However, the arguments in favor of redistribution of the earth, when they are well managed, can also energize the economy. There are examples in other African countries such as Zimbabwe, where reforms have led to economic crises, but also successes in Ethiopia where a more balanced approach has brought positive results. The challenge for South Africa will be to be inspired by good practices while avoiding errors of the past.
** Conclusion: towards renewed diplomacy? **
AFIRMATION OF South Africa to show restraint and to call for mutual respect is a laudable but insufficient act to sail in these tumultuous waters. The current situation between South Africa and the United States reflects more hemispherical discomfort in terms of racial and social justice that necessarily a decline in diplomatic relations. It is imperative that the two countries, with their respective stories, undertake frank dialogues which take into account the racial, economic and social issues which affect them closely.
In short, while the expulsion of Ebrahim Rasool can be perceived as an isolated event, it validates a larger reality where history, politics and the economy are intertwined, creating a complex challenge for diplomats and decision -makers of the two nations. Only informed and empathetic approaches will make it possible to build a common future based on respect and understanding of the various narrations that shape contemporary societies.