Cape Town (TDI): Iran’s ambassador to South Africa has praised growing ties between Tehran and Pretoria while calling on members of the BRICS bloc to unite against “aggression” by the United States and Israel amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, Iranian envoy Mansour Shakib Mehr said Tehran would facilitate safe passage for South African cargo ships through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz if needed.
The waterway is one of the world’s most important energy routes, and concerns over shipping disruptions have risen since the conflict involving Iran intensified in recent weeks.
Shakib Mehr said Iran had not completely closed the strait, despite heightened tensions. Instead, he indicated that vessels from countries considered friendly, including China and India, were being allowed to pass, while ships carrying cargo linked to the United States or Israel were being stopped.
According to the ambassador, Iran is prepared to extend similar cooperation to South Africa should it request assistance in moving goods or oil shipments through the region.
Read More: Iran Allows Some Indian Ships Through Strait of Hormuz
The comments come as relations between South Africa and the United States face strain over Pretoria’s stance toward Tehran.
South Africa has publicly condemned the strikes that launched the current conflict and has resisted pressure from Washington to sever diplomatic ties with Iran. Shakib Mehr described the diplomatic engagement between the two countries as close and ongoing, saying Tehran appreciated Pretoria’s position.
The ambassador also urged BRICS to push collectively for an end to the fighting. He called on member states to show solidarity and pressure those responsible for military action to halt further escalation.
As the conflict unfolds, the role of BRICS countries, several of which maintain significant economic and diplomatic ties with Iran, could become increasingly important in shaping diplomatic responses.
At the same time, Iran’s involvement in joint naval exercises linked to BRICS earlier this year has drawn scrutiny. South Africa’s presidency has reportedly ordered an inquiry after Iranian participation in exercises off Cape Town occurred despite instructions that Iranian forces should not be present.
