By Micah Jonah
January 16, 2026
South Africa’s defence ministry has launched an investigation into Iran’s participation in BRICS+ naval exercises held near Cape Town this week, following reports that President Cyril Ramaphosa had asked Iran to withdraw to avoid straining relations with the United States.
There has been uncertainty over Iran’s exact role in the drills, which also involved Russia and China. A Reuters witness reported seeing three Iranian vessels in False Bay throughout the exercise period, but the defence ministry has not clarified their operational involvement.
Local media outlets Daily Maverick and News24 reported that Ramaphosa ordered Iran’s withdrawal over concerns that its presence could damage South Africa’s already fragile ties with Washington. In response, the defence ministry said the inquiry would determine whether the president’s instructions were misrepresented or ignored.
Defence Minister Angie Motshekga told Reuters that claims the military defied presidential orders were untrue, though she did not provide further details. Ramaphosa’s office declined to comment on the matter.
The controversy comes at a sensitive time as U.S. lawmakers debate extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act, a preferential trade programme for African countries. Although the U.S. House of Representatives passed the extension this week, there remains a possibility that South Africa could be excluded.
The U.S. Embassy in South Africa said on social media that it noted with “concern and alarm” reports of Iran’s participation in the exercises. U.S. President, Donald Trump has also warned of possible action against Iran if a deadly crackdown on protest continues, though the unrest appears to be easing.
BRICS+ is an expanded version of the original bloc of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, and now includes countries such as Iran, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. Members view the group as a counterweight to U.S. and Western economic influence.
South Africa described the naval drills as an operation aimed at ensuring the safety of shipping routes and protecting maritime economic activities.
