The South African army chief has come under fire after expressing military and political support for Tehran during a recent visit to Iran.

Members of South Africa's coalition government have criticized General Rudzani Mfwanya for showing "reckless audacity", while President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that he will meet with the general to discuss his "ill-advised" trip.

The controversy arose at a time when South Africa was embroiled in tensions with the United States.

The US is unhappy with South Africa's relationship with Tehran and other issues.

The Democratic Alliance, part of the South African government, has called for General Mafwanya to be "court-martialled".