- South Africans applaud government's decision not to cut ties with Iran despite pressure from the United States
- The Department of International Relations and Cooperation rejected US President Donald Trump's demands and emphasized its ties with Iran
- Netizens commenting on social media discussed the importance of nations' sovereignty in the face of external pressure
Tebogo Mokwena, associated with news in briefDuring his 10 years of experience he covered local and international politics, political analysis and interviews in South Africa for the Daily Sun and Vutivii Business News.
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Pretoria, Gauteng – The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has received praise for insisting there is no reason to. South Africa To break relations with Iran. Pretoria is facing pressure from Washington to distance itself from Iran, with which it has been locked in conflict since launching the attack on February 28, 2026.
DIRCO director general Zane Dangar told Reuters that Government He is not indifferent to Iran, but sees no reason to distance himself from the Middle East nation. He recently spoke after United States Ambassador to South Africa Brent Bozell III Criticized the South African government's relations with Iran. He commented that despite Pretoria's eagerness to improve relations with Washington, the two countries should engage in areas of mutual agreement.
SA government sticks to its Iran stance
Dangar commented that South Africa cannot be drawn into any area Politics Great powers like America want to drag the country into this. He said the United States has a unique relationship with Iran that it does not have with most developing countries.
Dangar also commented on Washington's pressure on Pretoria to revise laws such as broad-based black economic empowerment (BBBEE) to make the act easier Trump imposes 30% tariff on South Africa In August 2025. The DG said that South Africa will not allow the domestic issues that the US has proposed to be part of the discussion.
Following the US government's announcement, Dangor further criticized the US refugee program aimed at Africans. It aims to process 4,500 refugee applications Africans' Monthly. He pointed out that the preferential immigration program should be done through normal channels and not under the 'refugee' moniker.
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Netizens agree with Dangor
Dangor's sentiments were well received by some South Africans on social media.
Ntombi Mzansi said:
“Our country, our rules, our choices. Economic impact aside, we will dance in the streets when American hegemony ends.”
Lebogang Ratsoana observed:
“South Africa stands firm on principles. Iran stood with us when we were fighting for independence. We know our allies.”
Christopher asked:
“Russia has strong ties with Iran, but Trump rolls out the red carpet for it?”.
Some South Africans disagreed with Dangar.
Briangriffin said:
“Then South Africa will have to face the consequences.”
Burn Elgin said:
“The ANC desperately needs another lump sum from the Iranian regime.”
Lionsevi said:
“The ANC is in the FO phase. It's just a matter of time.”
DIRCO warns South Africans traveling to the Middle East
In a related article, news in brief DIRCO was reported to have urged South Africans to exercise caution when traveling to the Middle East. The department also urged citizens in the region to remain vigilant and monitor official travel advisories.
Emirates Airlines suspends all flights Dubai and warned passengers not to travel to the airport. The suspension was implemented to prioritize the safety of passengers.
Source: News in Brief