Iran’s ambassador to South Africa vowed on Wednesday to ensure safe passage for Pretoria’s cargo through the strategic Strait of Hormuz amid soaring geopolitical tension.
In a press briefing, Ambassador Mansour Shakib Mehr urged all BRICS nations to unite and call for an end to what he described as ongoing “US‑Israel aggression” in the Middle East.
Iran praised South Africa’s recent condemnation of strikes by the United States and Israel and its refusal to sever diplomatic ties under U.S. pressure.
Shakib Mehr said Tehran was not blocking the critical shipping channel, but was selectively allowing vessels from friendly nations, including China and India.
He insisted that only tankers linked to U.S. or Israeli cargoes faced restrictions, and offered South African trade fleets preferential treatment if requested.
“We are able to cooperate with them to pass their cargoes and their tankers,” the ambassador said, weaving diplomatic assurance with geopolitical posturing.
Shakib Mehr urged BRICS members to push back against what he called unlawful actions, warning that the cycle of violence might one day engulf other emerging powers.
He referenced past incidents of alleged foreign interference and leadership targeting to underscore his plea for solidarity within the alliance.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s presidency has ordered a review into Iran’s role in earlier BRICS naval exercises, a move that drew U.S. criticism over Tehran’s participation.
The unfolding diplomatic interplay occurs against a backdrop of wider regional conflict that has disrupted maritime trade and global energy markets.