South Africa Investigates Iran's Involvement in Naval Drills

The South African Defence Ministry has announced an inquiry into Iran's participation in recent BRICS+ naval exercises. Questions have arisen over potential misrepresentation or disregard of President Cyril Ramaphosa's instructions to exclude Iran, reflecting concerns about diplomatic tensions with the United States.

South Africa's Defence Ministry announced Friday that Minister Angie Motshekga has initiated a probe into Iran's participation in the recent BRICS+ naval exercises.

According to the ministry's statement, the inquiry aims to assess whether President Cyril Ramaphosa's directive regarding Iran's involvement was misrepresented or ignored. Daily Maverick reported Ramaphosa's concerns about Iran's participation potentially harming South Africa's relations with the United States.

Minister of Defence Angie Motshekga clarified that Ramaphosa's instructions were clearly communicated to all parties, agreed upon, and expected to be implemented.

(With inputs from agencies.)