The US has accused South Africa’s defence ministry of refusing to obey government orders to send home Iranian warships participating in naval exercises off the coast of South Africa.
The exercises, dubbed “Peace Resolve,” involve warships from Iran and other Brics+ nations, including China and Russia.
The US embassy in South Africa stated that Iran’s participation “undermines maritime security and regional stability” and is “unconscionable” given Iran’s crackdown on protests.
South Africa’s defence ministry has launched an inquiry into the allegations, saying President Cyril Ramaphosa’s instructions were clearly communicated.
