South Africa’s government publicly refused a call from the United States to end diplomatic relations with Iran. The U.S. ambassador recently suggested Pretoria’s friendship with Iran hurts South Africa–U.S. relations, but South African officials rejected that idea.
South Africa says it is not going to let another country dictate its foreign policy or make decisions for it. Officials made it clear they disagree with some Iranian actions, such as human rights concerns and regional conflicts, but they still see value in keeping diplomatic channels open rather than breaking ties under outside pressure.
The rejection also comes amid broader tensions with Washington, including U.S. tariffs on South African imports and other demands from the U.S. administration on unrelated domestic policies. South Africa described the pressure as interference in its internal and foreign affairs.
In basic terms, Pretoria balanced its own foreign policy priorities sovereignty and independence in global engagement against pressure from a more powerful ally, and chose not to sever ties with Tehran
