US Claims South Africa Ignored Government Orders to Expel Iranian Ships
Washington / Pretoria: The United States has accused South Africa’s defence ministry of failing to follow government orders to send home Iranian warships that have been conducting naval exercises in the country’s waters.
In a statement, Washington said, “South Africa can’t lecture the world on ‘justice’ while cozying up to Iran,” highlighting its concern over the presence of Iranian naval forces during a period of violent crackdowns on protests in Iran.
Responding to the allegations, South Africa’s defence ministry said it would launch an inquiry to investigate the matter and address the “serious allegations.”
The dispute adds to rising diplomatic tensions as the US criticizes Pretoria for hosting Iranian military activities while Tehran faces international condemnation for its domestic crackdown.
