US criticises South Africa over Iran’s participation in naval drills

The United States criticised South Africa on Thursday over allowing Iran in naval exercises off its coast, describing the move as “unacceptable” in light of ongoing protests in Iran.

Ships from China, Iran, Russia and the United Arab Emirates sailed to waters off Cape Town about a week ago to take part in the exercises as part of cooperation among BRICS countries.

Local media reported that the South African government tried to exclude Iran from the China-led drills, which were held while protests continue in Iran. Human rights groups say these protests have resulted in the deaths of thousands.

It remains unclear how much Iranian vessels were involved in the exercises. The South African navy said the drills were necessary to “ensure the safety of shipping routes and maritime economic activities”.

Critics said the exercises brought together countries with major diplomatic disputes with the United States, at a time when Pretoria is seeking to improve strained relations with Washington.

The US embassy in South Africa said on the social media site X on Thursday that “Iran is a destabilising actor and state sponsor of terror, and its inclusion in joint exercises – in any capacity – undermines maritime security and regional stability,” 

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