BRICS leaders have called for maximum restraint over the war in the Middle East, warning against actions that could further worsen tensions as the United States and Iran resume strikes against each other.
The group unanimously adopted a joint declaration on Saturday, the opening day of its annual summit in New Delhi, expressing “deep concern” over the continuing escalation in the region.
The declaration called for a multilateral approach to resolving the crisis and stressed the importance of respecting the different positions of member countries.
“We express deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in Middle East... call for exercising maximum restraint... avoiding actions that could further aggravate the situation,” the New Delhi Declaration said.
The statement also reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to resolving international disputes through dialogue, consultation and diplomacy.
The declaration comes as the U.S. and Iran have resumed tit-for-tat strikes following a pause in fighting for much of August, putting the Middle East conflict back at the centre of international diplomacy.
The issue presented a particular challenge for India, which is hosting the summit. BRICS includes Iran, which is directly involved in the conflict, as well as the United Arab Emirates, a close U.S. ally.
Despite those differing positions, the members managed to agree on a joint statement calling for restraint and a diplomatic approach.
The declaration also raised concerns about the growing use of “unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures”, saying such measures distort trade.
The comments come amid U.S. sanctions on Iran and Russia. Washington has imposed sanctions on Tehran amid its conflict with the United States, while Russia has faced extensive U.S. sanctions over its war in Ukraine.
The statement reflects the broader economic and political differences within BRICS, a group that has expanded beyond its original members and increasingly seeks to present itself as a voice for countries outside the traditional Western-led order.
BRICS currently comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.
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