Proposal to transform historic site sparks debate over Iran-South Africa ties
The Iranian embassy has proposed converting Pretoria’s long-abandoned city hall, dormant for a decade and needing $11 million in repairs, into a cultural complex with restaurants, a museum, and a library, according to a May 9 letter to the Tshwane Municipality.
The plan, pitched as a boost to local jobs and Iran-South Africa cultural ties, has drawn scrutiny amid U.S. tensions with Iran over its nuclear ambitions and regional influence.
Transparency concerns demand a council debate.
Tshwane’s Kholofelo Morodi says the city is exploring ways to repurpose heritage sites to spur economic growth.
No decision is final, but the proposal highlights Pretoria’s deepening ties with Iran, a move that could complicate South Africa’s relations with Washington, which views Iran’s global outreach with suspicion.
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