Army general's Iran visit may affect SA-US ties

Expert says there are loopholes in country’s foreign policy

- MANYANE MANYANE [e-mail]

THE South African National Defence Force (SANDF) chief General Rudzani Maphwanya’ recent visit to Iran, where he reportedly pledged military and political support for the country, could deepen tensions between South Africa and the US.

This according to international relations expert, Dr Noluthando Phungula, who said South Africa's ties with Iran have been a bone of contention with the US.

Maphwanya, who travelled to Iran last Tuesday, held meetings with several high-ranking military officials, including Major General Aziz Nasizadeh, Iran’s defence minister, Major General Abdol-rahim Mousavi, the chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, and General Amir Hatami, the Iranian commander.

The trip was aimed at strengthening military cooperation.

According to Iranian newspaper Tehran Times, Maphwanya said that the two countries had common goals, and always stood alongside the oppressed and defenceless people of the world.

He also took aim at Israel over the continued war in Gaza as he reiterated support for the Palestinian people and told officials his visit “carries a political message” from Ramaphosa’s administration.

The meeting in Iran came amid tensions between South Africa and the US after months of worsening diplomatic relations between the two countries.