Chinese and Iranian warships have docked near South Africa’s main naval base ahead of a multinational naval exercise said to be involving Russia, raising fresh diplomatic sensitivities in 2026.
The “Will for Peace” drills will run from 9–16 January in waters off False Bay, near Cape Town, hosted by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
The exercise is framed as technical and cooperative, but takes place amid strained relations between South Africa and several Western partners.
Key developments
• Chinese and Iranian warships arrived this week; Russian vessels are expected.
• The SANDF says the drills focus on shipping safety and maritime economic security.
• The exercise involves navies from BRICS countries.
• US President Donald Trump has previously criticised BRICS states for pursuing “anti-American” policies.
• South Africa faces ongoing Western criticism over its ties with Russia and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
The drills revive debate over South Africa’s strategic positioning in an increasingly polarised global order.
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