South Africa’s Department of Defence has launched a board of inquiry into how the Iranian navy took part in Exercise Will for Peace 2026 in False Bay despite a directive that Iran should be asked to withdraw.

The inquiry comes after allegations that the President’s instructions were not carried out, or were misrepresented or ignored. Defence Department spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini said the board’s job is to “investigate and report” on those allegations linked to Iran’s participation during the exercise.

Why Iran’s Ships Became an Issue

Will for Peace 2026 took place off the Cape Town coast earlier this month. Iran sent three warships. The controversy centres on claims that President Cyril Ramaphosa wanted Iran excluded from participation, with the instruction conveyed by Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga.

One defence analyst, Helmoed-Römer Heitman, has argued that the fallout is as much about timing and diplomacy as it is about military decision-making, warning that the damage was already done once the exercise was announced and the ships arrived.

Who is on the Board

The board will be chaired by retired Judge Bernard Makgabo Ngoepe. Other members include retired Judge Mashangu Monica Leeuw, retired Judge Kathleen Margaret “Kathie” Satchwell and retired Rear Admiral (Junior Grade) Patrick Duze.

The department has said it took longer than expected to finalise the panel, which affected the initial deadline.

What the Inquiry Must Answer

The board is expected to focus on whether the chain of command followed the directive on Iran’s role. It will also look at how Iran’s involvement was communicated and authorised, including whether there was confusion between “withdrawal”, “no participation” or an “observer-only” role.

What Happens Next

The Defence Department says the board will start work once administrative arrangements are in place. The terms of reference have not yet been made public. The findings will be submitted to the defence minister once the inquiry is completed.