South Africa investigates Iran’s participation in BRICS+ naval exercises
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Cooperation areas
Source: The Economic Times | Original Published At: 2026-01-16 13:30:00 UTC
Key Points
- South Africa launched a defense ministry investigation into Iran's presence at BRICS+ naval drills near Cape Town
- President Ramaphosa reportedly ordered Iran's withdrawal to protect US relations, but defense officials deny ignoring orders
- US expressed 'concern and alarm' over Iran's participation during critical trade negotiations under African Growth and Opportunity Act
- Drills included Russia and China, with Iran's involvement highlighting BRICS+ expansion complexities
- Exercises officially described as maritime safety operations but occurred amid geopolitical tensions involving Western powers