China, Russia and Iran begin BRICS Plus naval exercises in South African waters

China, Russia and Iran have begun a week-long BRICS Plus naval exercise in South African waters described by South Africa as aimed at ensuring the safety of shipping and maritime economic activity; Brazil, Egypt and Ethiopia participated as observers.

China, Russia and Iran began a week of joint naval exercises in South African waters, described by the host as a BRICS Plus operation to ensure the safety of shipping and maritime economic activities. BRICS Plus expands the original BRICS grouping to include additional countries and is often discussed in relation to global diplomatic and economic alignments. Chinese military officials said Brazil, Egypt and Ethiopia took part as observers at the opening ceremony. South African military spokespeople emphasized the exercise is a naval interoperability and maritime safety drill. Reported details: - China, Russia and Iran began a week-long joint naval exercise in South African waters. - South Africa's military described the operation as a BRICS Plus exercise focused on maritime safety and interoperability. - Chinese officials said Brazil, Egypt and Ethiopia attended as observers. - A South African spokesperson said the exercise is not a political arrangement and noted South Africa also conducts exercises with the U.S. Navy. Summary: The drills take place amid heightened tensions between the U.S. administration and several BRICS Plus countries. The exercises are scheduled to run for one week; further outcomes are undetermined at this time.