KABUL: China, Russia, and Iran commenced joint naval military exercises, on Saturday in the waters of South Africa, slated to last for one week. The South African military stated that these exercises fall under the “BRICS Plus” umbrella, aiming to enhance security along maritime routes, logistics, and maritime economic activities. Brics Plus is an expanded coalition originating from the Brics group, which initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, but has now also incorporated Egypt, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. Chinese military officials indicated that Brazil, Egypt, and Ethiopia are participating in these exercises as observers. These drills occur amid heightened political tensions between the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump and some members of BRICS Plus. Trump has accused these countries of engaging in “anti-American policies” and has threatened additional tariffs. The exercises have been criticized by South Africa’s pro-Western Democratic Alliance party as conflicting with the country’s neutral stance; however, a military spokesperson dismissed these claims, stating that all members were invited to participate.
