by MTHULISI SIBANDA
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE United States and South Africa appear to be heading for another collision course after the American embassy regarding Iran’s participation in the ongoing naval exercises.
THE US Embassy issued a strongly worded statement, part of it accusing South Africa of hypocrisy on justice amid global geopolitics.
It said it had noted with “concern” and “alarm” reports that the Minister of Defense and South African National Defence Force (SANDF) defied a government order regarding Iran’s participation in the exercise running from January 9 to 16.
Angie Motshekga is the minister.
“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,” the embassy stated.
According to the US, it is particularly “unconscionable” that South Africa welcomed Iranian security forces as they were shooting, jailing, and torturing Iranian citizens engaging in peaceful political activity South Africans fought so hard to attain.
“South Africa can’t lecture the world on ‘justice’ while cozying up to Iran,” the embassy added.
This seems to be in reference to South Africa taking Israel to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in late 2023, accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
“And permitting Iranian military forces to operate in South African waters — or going to Tehran and expressing solidarity — isn’t ‘non-alignment’: it’s choosing to stand with a regime that brutally represses its people and engages in terrorism.” The embassy charged further.
South Africa argues its foreign policy of non-alignment but critics accuse the government of siding with some autocratic governments.
The embassy’s statement elicited responses from members of the public.
“You (America) are allied with Israel, yet everyone in the world can see that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza,” said Sakhile Khumalo.
Mo Madibi shared similar sentiments.
“Don’t forget that your enemy is not necessarily our enemy. Fight your battles without pinning your hopes on us as South Africa,” he said.
The US mission in South Africa has previously come under criticism for its conduct.
Then ambassador, Reuben Brigety, publicly accused South Africa in 2023 for allegedly providing weapons and ammunition to Russia.
In 2022, the embassy issued a high-profile warning about a possible terrorist attack targeting large gatherings in Johannesburg.
This angered the government of President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In early 2025, US officials warned the US Consulate in Johannesburg would be closed if the local council proceeded with plans to rename a street where the consulate is located, after Palestinian militant Leila Khaled.
Relations have exacerbated since Donald Trump returned to the White House in 2025.
– CAJ News