U.S. pressure reshapes BRICS+ as Iran exits South Africa war games
Business Insider Africa • • world
Key Points:
- South Africa requested Iran to withdraw its naval vessels from active participation in the "Will for Peace 2026" exercises and join only as observers, aiming to avoid straining relations with the United States.
- Iran agreed to the request and is expected to pull back its ships from Simon’s Town Naval Base before the drills, which are led by China and include BRICS and BRICS-Plus countries.
- South Africa’s move reflects concerns that Iran’s military presence could jeopardize sensitive trade ties with the U.S., especially as Pretoria seeks to maintain benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
- The situation underscores the influence of U.S. economic pressure, including tariffs threatened by former President Trump against countries trading with Iran, which can
