Will for Peace 2026

"Will for Peace 2026" was a week-long naval exercise held off the coast of South Africa from January 9-16, 2026. The drills involved the navies of China, Russia, Iran, and host nation South Africa, and were framed by South Africa as a routine maritime safety and interoperability operation essential for protecting maritime economic activities. The exercises are newsworthy due to the geopolitical implications of Iran's participation, drawing criticism from the US and internal dissent within South Africa. Some analysts view the drills as a symbolic shift for BRICS beyond economic cooperation, signaling a potential move towards military cooperation and a challenge to the existing global order. India opted out of the exercises. The event is significant as it highlights growing tensions between BRICS nations and the US, and raises questions about the evolving purpose and influence of the BRICS alliance in a changing global landscape.