China, Russia, Iran Warships Arrive in South Africa for BRICS 'Will for Peace' Drills

• Warships from China, Russia, and Iran have arrived in South African waters for the week-long 'Will for Peace 2026' naval exercise.
• The drills, led by China and organized under the BRICS bloc, aim to practice maritime safety and anti-piracy operations, strengthening cooperation among member nations.
• The exercises are taking place off the coast of Cape Town, with vessels seen at the main naval base in Simon's Town.
• The United Arab Emirates is expected to send ships, while Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Brazil will participate as observers.
• The drills are expected to further complicate relations between the US and South Africa, drawing scrutiny from Washington due to South Africa's ties with China, Russia, and Iran.

Why It Matters: BRICS naval drills involving China, Russia, and Iran in South Africa raise US concerns over geopolitical alignments.