US accuses South Africa military of 'cosying up to Iran'

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 16, 2026 at 12:42 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

The US has accused South Africa's defense ministry of defying government orders to send home Iranian warships participating in naval exercises. These exercises, dubbed "Peace Resolve," are led by China and involve other BRICS alliance members, including Russia. The US criticizes South Africa for aligning with Iran amidst the country's crackdown on protests, arguing it undermines regional stability and disregards human rights. South Africa's defense ministry has launched an inquiry into the allegations. The US embassy expressed "concern and alarm" over the situation, stating that South Africa's actions contradict its own history of fighting for political freedom. The exercises began last Friday and are scheduled to last a week.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

BBC 30% Ed Habershon 30% Natasha Booty 30% University of Witwatersrand 40% Angie Motshekga 40% Cyril Ramaphosa 40% Russia ×250% William Gumede 50% China ×250% United States ×490% Iran ×790% South Africa ×995%

Keywords

us south africa relations 90% iran 80% naval exercises 70% military cooperation 60% non-alignment 50% human rights 50% regional stability 40% maritime security 40%