US EditionGeneral Maphwanya Faces Backlash for Controversial Iran Visit
South African government clarified that General Maphwanya's Iran remarks do not reflect official foreign policy amid rising diplomatic tensions with the United States, officials said.
- On August 14, 2025, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation distanced the South African government from comments by South African National Defence Force chief General Rudzani Maphwanya, stressing they do not reflect policy.
- On Tuesday, Maphwanya toured Iran’s defence research and training facility Dafoos, engaging in discussions on military cooperation, according to reports.
- The Ministry of Defence and Military Veterans clarified on Wednesday night that Maphwanya’s remarks were not its official position, with DIRCO stating foreign policy decisions are solely for the Presidency.
- To address the issue, the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans will meet with Maphwanya upon his return, and Ronald Lamola will seek clarification on the comments.
- Amid already strained ties with the United States, his comments risk AGOA expulsion, and DIRCO has distanced South Africa from the SANDF chief’s remarks on Iran.
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South Africa's Top General Under Fire For Remarks In Iran
President Cyril Ramaphosa's office criticised South Africa's top general on Thursday for reported comments about solidarity with Iran as unhelpful during the process of resetting ties with the United States.
·New York, United States
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South Africa distances itself from top general’s pro-Iran remarks amid US trade tensions.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources16
Leaning Left1Leaning Right4Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution44% Center, 44% Right
Bias Distribution
- 44% of the sources are Center, 44% of the sources lean Right
44% Right
11%
C 44%
R 44%
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