South Africa Stands Firm Against US Demands to Sever Iran Ties

South Africa’s Director-General of International Relations, Zane Dangor, has firmly rejected calls from the United States to distance the country from Iran. Speaking to Reuters, Dangor stated there is no justification for cutting ties, despite comments from the new US Ambassador Leo Bozell that such links hinder better relations with Washington.

This stance comes as Pretoria navigates tensions exacerbated by the US-Israel conflict with Iran and a broader deterioration in bilateral relations during Donald Trump’s second presidency. Trump previously accused South Africa’s Black-led government of targeting its white minority, echoing unsubstantiated claims about land grabs.

Dangor emphasized South Africa’s independence, refusing to be drawn into superpower rivalries. He noted Pretoria’s past criticisms of Iran, including its handling of protests and regional aggressions, but insisted on maintaining diplomatic autonomy.

The US has imposed a 30% tariff on South African imports, threatening jobs in a nation where unemployment affects a third of the population. Washington also seeks changes to Black Economic Empowerment laws and the withdrawal of South Africa’s International Court of Justice case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza—demands Dangor dismissed outright.

Pretoria further opposes a US plan to fast-track refugee status for 4,500 white South Africans monthly, labeling it a preferential scheme that bypasses standard procedures. A Kenya-based refugee processing group was denied access for this reason. Dangor expressed willingness to engage on mutual interests to mend ties.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)