Bangladesh, Feb. 5 -- The diplomatic standoff between the United States, South Africa, and Israel has intensified, exposing widening fractures in global alignments over the Gaza war, international law, and the limits of diplomatic conduct. Washingtons sharp criticism of Pretorias decision to expel Israels top diplomat marks not only a bilateral dispute but a broader struggle over political identity, alliance loyalty, and the evolving norms of international diplomacy.

At the center of the controversy is South Africas declaration of Israels charge daffaires in Pretoria, Ariel Seidman, as persona non grata. The decision, announced last week, required Seidman to leave the country within 72 hours. Pretoria said the move followed repeated viol...