Iran Reduced To Observer Role In BRICS Naval Drills After US Pressure On South Africa
Cooperation areas
Source: Times Now | Original Published At: 2026-01-14 08:41:58 UTC
Key Points
- Iran withdrew warships from BRICS 'Will for Peace 2026' naval drills near South Africa after US President Trump threatened 25% tariffs on countries engaging with Iran.
- South Africa requested Iran's downgrade to observer status to protect its AGOA duty-free access to US markets during BRICS+ exercises.
- China-led drills continue with Russian, UAE, and South African naval forces, while Brazil, Indonesia, and Ethiopia participate as observers.
- US Senator Jim Risch criticized the drills as anti-Western, while Pretoria characterized them as routine maritime security cooperation.
- The incident highlights tensions between BRICS solidarity and Western economic leverage, with Trump's policy reshaping emerging alliances.