South Africa has no intention of cutting diplomatic ties with Iran, despite recent comments from the new U.S. ambassador suggesting the relationship hinders stronger Pretoria–Washington relations.
Zane Dangor, director-general of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, told Reuters, emphasising that while the country remains critical of some Iranian actions, such as its crackdown on protesters earlier this year and regional military activity, it will not let great powers dictate its foreign policy.
“We cannot be pulled into the sphere-of-influence politics that other nations try to impose,” Dangor said, referencing pressure from the United States.
The remarks come against a tense backdrop. Since beginning his second term, Donald Trump’s administration has had a strained relationship with South Africa, marked by disputes, trade tensions, and political disagreements.
In August 2025, Washington imposed a 30% tariff on South African imports, a move that threatened tens of thousands of jobs amid a national unemployment rate of around 33%.
Trump administration officials have also pushed Pretoria to adjust domestic policies, including Black economic empowerment laws, and to drop its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
The United States’ Ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, recently disclosed that Washington’s patience with South Africa is wearing thin.
Sovereignty Remains Priority
Dangor rejected these overtures, stressing that domestic laws and judicial proceedings will not be influenced by foreign demands. He also criticised a U.S. plan to fast-track refugee applications for white South Africans, calling it a “preferential immigration programme” outside standard channels.
South Africa’s stance reflects a broader approach to balancing international relationships while safeguarding sovereignty. Dangor acknowledged the desire to improve relations with Washington but made it clear that engagement will focus on mutual priorities rather than coercion.
“Let’s focus on the areas where we agree,” he said, “and not allow external pressures to compromise our domestic or foreign policy decisions.”
