Consensus within the BRICS grouping on the West Asia crisis appeared uncertain during the foreign ministers’ meeting, with sharp disagreements emerging between Iran and the United Arab Emirates over the conflict and regional security issues.
Diplomatic sources indicated that negotiations on a joint statement remained delicate, with efforts underway to bridge differences between the two member states.
UAE and Iran Trade Accusations
The UAE reportedly pushed for stronger language condemning Iran’s actions, while Iranian foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi urged BRICS nations to explicitly condemn what he described as violations of international law by the United States and Israel.
Araghchi accused the UAE of indirectly supporting aggression against Iran, alleging that the Gulf nation had provided facilities, airspace, and logistical support to the US and Israel during the conflict.
Responding to remarks by UAE minister Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, Araghchi reportedly said:
“If you want America to provide your security, this is the result.”
He also urged the UAE leadership to reconsider its regional policy toward Iran.
Joint Statement Still Uncertain
The foreign ministers’ meeting concludes on Friday morning, but officials suggested a joint declaration may not be guaranteed if differences persist.
In the absence of consensus, the meeting could end with only a Chair’s statement, similar to what occurred during a previous BRICS envoys’ meeting last month.
The disagreement highlights growing challenges within the expanded BRICS grouping after the admission of new members in 2024, including Iran, the UAE, Egypt, and Ethiopia.
Jaishankar Stresses Need for Shared Consensus
India’s external affairs minister S. Jaishankar emphasised in his opening remarks that newer BRICS members must align with the grouping’s existing consensus on major issues for the bloc to function smoothly.
His comments were made in the context of institutional reforms and the integration of newly admitted countries into BRICS mechanisms.
Iran Raises Netanyahu UAE Visit Allegation
Araghchi also referred to reports alleging that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had secretly visited the UAE during the conflict — a claim Abu Dhabi has denied.
According to Iranian state media, the Iranian minister argued that the alleged visit demonstrated UAE involvement in actions against Iran.
Iran Calls for Stronger BRICS Role
In his national statement, Araghchi urged BRICS nations to oppose the politicisation of international institutions and take stronger action against what he called “warmongering” and violations of the United Nations Charter.
He said BRICS should emerge as a major pillar in creating a “more just, balanced, and humane global order” where power does not override international law.
