Iran Withdraws From BRICS+ Drills at South Africa's Request Due to US Pressure: Reports
Iran Withdraws From BRICS+ Drills at South Africa's Request Due to US Pressure: Reports
Following diplomatic talks with South Africa, Iran has agreed to downgrade its participation in the BRICS+ naval exercises off the coast of South Africa to observer status, South African media reported, citing sources.
Iran has accepted the situation with understanding, the report read on Monday, adding that two Iranian ships that arrived at Simon's Town Naval Base last week are expected to withdraw from the "Will for Peace 2026" exercises, which begin early Tuesday morning.
South Africa's request is reportedly based on several factors:
🟠South Africa is hosting China-led BRICS naval exercises in its strategically located waters;
🟠Pretoria hopes to secure an extension of trade preferences under the upcoming US Congressional vote on the African Growth and Opportunity Act;
🟠The situation is complicated by ongoing protests in Iran amid the US's tough stance toward the Iranian government.
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