🇿🇦 South Africa Army Chief Faces Backlash for Iran Visit

South Africa’s army chief is under fire after pledging military and political support to Iran, sparking a political storm at home and abroad.

Zig Diaries Defence
Date: Friday, 15 August 2025
Time: 13:30 WAT
Location: 📍 Pretoria, South Africa

General Rudzani Maphwanya’s comments in Tehran have drawn criticism from South African lawmakers and the presidency, highlighting tensions in the country’s foreign relations.

Members of the governing coalition have described Geneneral Maphwanya’s trip as “reckless grandstanding,” while President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed he would meet the general to address the “ill-advised” visit.

The Democratic Alliance called for the army chief to be court-martialled, arguing his statements went beyond military cooperation into foreign policy.

During his visit, Gen. Maphwanya reportedly told Iranian officials that South Africa and Iran shared common goals and stood “alongside the oppressed and defenceless people of the world,” according to Tehran Times. He also criticized Israel over the Gaza conflict and said his visit “carries a political message” from Ramaphosa’s administration.

The South African government has distanced itself from these remarks. The defence department labelled the comments “unfortunate,” while the foreign affairs ministry clarified that they “do not represent the government's official foreign policy stance.” Ramaphosa’s spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the president was unaware of the trip and emphasized that the general should have been more circumspect.

Gen. Maphwanya has since returned home. South Africa’s ties with Iran, dating back to 1995 through a joint commission of cooperation, have been a point of contention with the US. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump cited these relations in an executive order cutting aid to South Africa, alongside accusations regarding Israel and domestic policies — claims South Africa has denied.

Fact-Check & Background Context:
South Africa has maintained military and political ties with Iran since 1995. 

The Democratic Alliance has long voiced concerns about South Africa’s relationship with Iran. 

Reports of Gen. Maphwanya’s statements were published by Iranian media outlets. 

The US has repeatedly criticised South Africa’s engagement with Tehran, affecting bilateral relations.

🏷️ Tags: South Africa, Iran, Rudzani Maphwanya, Cyril Ramaphosa, Defence
 #ZigDiariesDefence #SouthAfrica #Iran #MilitaryDiplomacy