Russia-Ukraine tensions escalate as Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warns of a harsh response to Kyiv, saying Moscow is intensifying its actions.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is set to travel to New Delhi for the upcoming BRICS Summit, as India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in September 2026.

In India, fugitive drug kingpin Virendra Singh Basoya has been brought back from the UAE and taken into custody by the Narcotics Control Bureau. The Supreme Court has also quashed FIRs against comedian Samay Raina and four others over alleged insensitive remarks concerning persons with disabilities on India’s Got Latent.

President Droupadi Murmu has opened Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan, while a Tiranga rally in Jammu and Kashmir showcased patriotism and communal harmony ahead of Independence Day.

Internationally, around 1,800 people have been evacuated in western Germany after a wildfire spread, while Zambia has suspended nationwide vote counting following reports of violence. Gold prices have also declined as investors book profits after bullion recently climbed to its highest level in more than two months.

Russia Warns Ukraine | Iran Prez To Visit India | US-Iran Tensions | Germany Wildfire | Zambia News

Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni has called on fellow BRICS nations to take a “clear and decisive” stand against what he described as aggression on Iranian territory, while speaking at the group's ministerial meeting in New Delhi.Speaking at the BRICS Ministers of Interior Meeting, Momeni said attacks had violated Iran’s integrity and caused widespread destruction. “The aggression against territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the violation of the country’s integrity, the widespread destruction of infrastructure, power plants, residential areas, schools, hospitals and other civilian sites, the killing of women, children and the elderly are a clear manifestation of disregard for all international documents, including the United Nations Charter,” he said.He expressed hope that BRICS members would respond within the framework of international law. “The Islamic Republic of Iran hopes that the respected BRICS members… while condemning these actions, will adopt a clear and decisive position in opposing aggression and violation of the sovereignty of countries, attacks on civilians and the destruction of vital infrastructure.”Momeni added that a unified BRICS voice defending international law and national sovereignty “will have an important message for the international community and will help strengthen international peace, security and stability.”The remarks come against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict involving Iran that began earlier this year with strikes on Iranian targets by the US and Israel. BRICS, which includes Iran as a member, has struggled to reach consensus on the issue.Shifting focus to shared challenges, Momeni stressed that modern risks transcend borders. “Today, the world is facing risks that have crossed geographical, political and economic borders. Climate change, natural disasters, disease epidemics, vulnerability of critical infrastructure and other emerging crises have simultaneously affected the security, development and well-being of nations,” he said. “In such circumstances, no country can cope with these threats alone, and multilateral cooperation is more imperative than ever.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-rejected-a-peace-deal-proposed-by-us-president-donald-trump-and-conveyed-by-iraq-claims-report-1784879312937">Iran rejected a peace deal proposed by US President Donald Trump and conveyed by Iraq, claims report</a>He highlighted Iran’s experience managing earthquakes, floods, droughts and other hazards, offering it as a basis for BRICS collaboration. Urbanisation, he noted, had increased exposure to climate-related risks, requiring a “comprehensive, forward-looking and resilient approach” to infrastructure.“Today, more than ever, we need a comprehensive look at the concept of resilience. Resilience does not only mean post-crisis reconstruction, but also means prevention, preparedness, smart risk management and increasing the capacity of communities to continue essential services in crisis situations,” Momeni said. He argued that critical infrastructure resilience had become “one of the pillars of national security, human safety and sustainable development.”On behalf of Iran, he proposed that member countries develop operational plans based on recent BRICS documents on urban infrastructure resilience and disaster management. Iran welcomed specialised training courses, exchanges of technical teams and joint manoeuvres to implement the Sendai Framework and Sustainable Development Goals.The New Delhi meeting forms part of India’s 2026 BRICS chairmanship, focusing on internal security, counter-terrorism and related cooperation.

The remarks come against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict involving Iran that began earlier this year with strikes on Iranian targets by the US and Israel. 

Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni has called on fellow BRICS nations to take a “clear and decisive” stand against what he described as aggression on Iranian territory, while speaking at the group's ministerial meeting in New Delhi. Speaking at the BRICS Ministers of Interior Meeting, Momeni said attacks had violated Iran’s integrity and caused widespread destruction. “The aggression against territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the violation of the country’s integrity, the widespread destruction of infrastructure, power plants, residential areas, schools, hospitals and other civilian sites, the killing of women, children and the elderly are a clear manifestation of disregard for all international documents, including the United Nations Charter,” he said. He expressed hope that BRICS members would respond within the framework of international law. “The Islamic Republic of Iran hopes that the respected BRICS members… while condemning these actions, will adopt a clear and decisive position in opposing aggression and violation of the sovereignty of countries, attacks on civilians and the destruction of vital infrastructure.” Momeni added that a unified BRICS voice defending international law and national sovereignty “will have an important message for the international community and will help strengthen international peace, security and stability.” The remarks come against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict involving Iran that began earlier this year with strikes on Iranian targets by the US and Israel. BRICS, which includes Iran as a member, has struggled to reach consensus on the issue. Shifting focus to shared challenges, Momeni stressed that modern risks transcend borders. “Today, the world is facing risks that have crossed geographical, political and economic borders. Climate change, natural disasters, disease epidemics, vulnerability of critical infrastructure and other emerging crises have simultaneously affected the security, development and well-being of nations,” he said. “In such circumstances, no country can cope with these threats alone, and multilateral cooperation is more imperative than ever.” Also read | Iran rejected a peace deal proposed by US President Donald Trump and conveyed by Iraq, claims report He highlighted Iran’s experience managing earthquakes, floods, droughts and other hazards, offering it as a basis for BRICS collaboration. Urbanisation, he noted, had increased exposure to climate-related risks, requiring a “comprehensive, forward-looking and resilient approach” to infrastructure. “Today, more than ever, we need a comprehensive look at the concept of resilience. Resilience does not only mean post-crisis reconstruction, but also means prevention, preparedness, smart risk management and increasing the capacity of communities to continue essential services in crisis situations,” Momeni said. He argued that critical infrastructure resilience had become “one of the pillars of national security, human safety and sustainable development.” On behalf of Iran, he proposed that member countries develop operational plans based on recent BRICS documents on urban infrastructure resilience and disaster management. Iran welcomed specialised training courses, exchanges of technical teams and joint manoeuvres to implement the Sendai Framework and Sustainable Development Goals. The New Delhi meeting forms part of India’s 2026 BRICS chairmanship, focusing on internal security, counter-terrorism and related cooperation.

The remarks come against the backdrop of an ongoing conflict involving Iran that began earlier this year with strikes on Iranian targets by the US and Israel.&nbsp;

Iran's interior minister Momeni urges BRICS to take clear stand against attacks on its territory during Delhi meet

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12-13 September. Bangladesh is not a BRICS member, but the invitation as a special guest shows India's efforts to engage the new government in Dhaka following February's elections. Indian PM was the first world leader to telephone Rahman after his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a landslide victory in the February parliamentary elections. In the call, the Indian leader congratulated Rahman and reaffirmed India's commitment to ties. Practical cooperation has also deepened. During the energy disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict earlier this year, India supplied thousands of tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline, a critical lifeline that helped ease fuel shortages in northern Bangladesh. The pipeline, operational since 2023, has proven its strategic value in times of regional instability. Diplomatic engagement has continued at various levels. Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman visited India earlier this year, one of the highest-level visits since the 2024 political changes, and met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila earlier today.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-must-normalise-ties-with-israel-to-secure-nuclear-deal-with-us-trump-1784812903857">Saudi Arabia must join Abraham Accords to normalise ties with Israel for nuclear deal with US: Trump</a>&nbsp;In June, newly appointed Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi, a former Union minister granted cabinet-equivalent status, announced the resumption of general travel visas for Bangladeshi nationals after a nearly two-year suspension. Applications reopened from 28 June at centres in Dhaka, Rajshahi, Chattogram, Sylhet and Khulna, aiming to restore people-to-people contacts. The September summit, under India's chairship with the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability", will bring together leaders of the BRICS under one roof at a time of global conflicts and their impact on the global south. Rahman's potential attendance would mark a significant diplomatic engagement for the new Bangladeshi leadership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, signalling India's efforts to strengthen ties with Dhaka through high-level diplomatic engagement and practical cooperation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12-13 September. Bangladesh is not a BRICS member, but the invitation as a special guest shows India's efforts to engage the new government in Dhaka following February's elections. Indian PM was the first world leader to telephone Rahman after his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) secured a landslide victory in the February parliamentary elections. In the call, the Indian leader congratulated Rahman and reaffirmed India's commitment to ties. Practical cooperation has also deepened. During the energy disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict earlier this year, India supplied thousands of tonnes of diesel to Bangladesh through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline, a critical lifeline that helped ease fuel shortages in northern Bangladesh. The pipeline, operational since 2023, has proven its strategic value in times of regional instability. Diplomatic engagement has continued at various levels. Bangladesh's Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman visited India earlier this year, one of the highest-level visits since the 2024 political changes, and met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila earlier today. Also Read: Saudi Arabia must join Abraham Accords to normalise ties with Israel for nuclear deal with US: Trump In June, newly appointed Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi, a former Union minister granted cabinet-equivalent status, announced the resumption of general travel visas for Bangladeshi nationals after a nearly two-year suspension. Applications reopened from 28 June at centres in Dhaka, Rajshahi, Chattogram, Sylhet and Khulna, aiming to restore people-to-people contacts. The September summit, under India's chairship with the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability", will bring together leaders of the BRICS under one roof at a time of global conflicts and their impact on the global south. Rahman's potential attendance would mark a significant diplomatic engagement for the new Bangladeshi leadership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, signalling India's efforts to strengthen ties with Dhaka through high-level diplomatic engagement and practical cooperation.

India invites Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman to BRICS Summit

Amid fragile situation in West Asia Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday (June 30). During their conversation, Pezeshkian briefed the Indian PM on "recent developments" in the region and the understanding reached on the war with the United States.&nbsp;The Indian Prime Minister welcomed the update and reiterated India's long-standing call for all disputes to be resolved through "dialogue and diplomacy" rather than escalation.&nbsp;He also formally invited Iranian President Pezeshkian to attend BRICS summit in India in September, said Tehran in a statement after the call between both the leaders.<h2>India to attend Khamenei's funeral</h2>&nbsp;India also assured the Iranian president that it will send a special delegation to attend the funeral ceremony of Khamenei.&nbsp;"India would send a special delegation to attend the funeral ceremony" of the fmr Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, PM Modi told Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian over the phone.&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose funeral will begin ‌in ⁠Tehran ⁠on July 4 and conclude with ​his burial in the ​northeastern city of Mashhad ⁠on July ⁠9, will be laid to rest near the shrine of Imam Reza, fulfilling his wish of being buried next to one of Shia Islam's most revered figures.<h2>Significant stake in Strait of Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi also stressed the importance of "continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability, while safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce in critical waterways".&nbsp;New Delhi has significant stakes in the region with energy security, trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz, and the safety of its large diaspora in the Gulf and Iran. India imports substantial energy resources and relies on stable shipping lanes for its economy. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

During their conversation, Pezeshkian briefed the Indian PM on "recent developments" in the region and the understanding reached on the war with the United States.

Amid fragile situation in West Asia Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday (June 30). During their conversation, Pezeshkian briefed the Indian PM on "recent developments" in the region and the understanding reached on the war with the United States. The Indian Prime Minister welcomed the update and reiterated India's long-standing call for all disputes to be resolved through "dialogue and diplomacy" rather than escalation. He also formally invited Iranian President Pezeshkian to attend BRICS summit in India in September, said Tehran in a statement after the call between both the leaders. India to attend Khamenei's funeral India also assured the Iranian president that it will send a special delegation to attend the funeral ceremony of Khamenei. "India would send a special delegation to attend the funeral ceremony" of the fmr Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, PM Modi told Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian over the phone. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose funeral will begin ‌in ⁠Tehran ⁠on July 4 and conclude with his burial in the northeastern city of Mashhad ⁠on July ⁠9, will be laid to rest near the shrine of Imam Reza, fulfilling his wish of being buried next to one of Shia Islam's most revered figures. Significant stake in Strait of Hormuz PM Modi also stressed the importance of "continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability, while safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce in critical waterways". New Delhi has significant stakes in the region with energy security, trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz, and the safety of its large diaspora in the Gulf and Iran. India imports substantial energy resources and relies on stable shipping lanes for its economy.

During their conversation, Pezeshkian briefed the Indian PM on "recent developments" in the region and the understanding reached on the war with the United States.

Modi invites Iran's Pezeshkian for BRICS summit in India

Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, on Friday (May 15) said BRICS members found common ground on almost all issues across the three pillars of cooperation during the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Addressing a special media briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs, Dalela said the outcome document reflects a shared position on global economic governance reforms. "Regarding the first question about the result of this meeting: as I mentioned, we have an Outcome Document posted online which contains 63 paragraphs. As Chair, it is our responsibility to facilitate dialogue among all members. I am happy to share that on almost all matters across the three verticals of our partnership, we found common ground," he said.&nbsp;Dalela said that the comprehensive outcome document is a positive step for the grouping. "The fact that we have a strong outcome document covering global governance, agriculture, health, the UNSC, and terrorism is very positive. The document reflects a common position on the reform of global economic governance, the condemnation of terrorism, climate change, and human-centric AI. I would request everyone to study this document carefully. It provides a very good basis for our preparation for the summit in the second half of this year. We have more than 20 thematic ministerial tracks coming up, which will feed into the summit. I am confident we will continue to build consensus," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-totally-false-pm-modi-dismisses-media-report-on-proposed-foreign-travel-tax-1778868159313">‘Totally false’: PM Modi dismisses media report on proposed foreign travel tax</a>&nbsp;Speaking on West Asia, Dalela acknowledged that some members expressed differing opinions but stressed that diplomacy remained central to discussions. "Regarding the situation in West Asia, there was a frank and candid sharing of assessments. It is a fact that there were differing views among some members regarding that specific situation. However, the members shared perspectives, including the need for an early resolution of the crisis, the value of diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and the importance of safe maritime commerce. As Chair, we reflected these views transparently. While there were some differing perspectives on regional elements, we managed to build consensus on nearly everything else. We will continue to engage through the Sherpa channel to find common ground on the remaining issues," he said.&nbsp;On Palestine, Dalela reiterated BRICS’ long-standing position supporting a sovereign Palestinian state. "Regarding the question of Palestine, BRICS has had a very coherent and clear view. If you look at previous declarations, we have maintained a common stance. The ministers candidly discussed this and articulated that common view again, calling for the creation of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. I don't see this as a departure, but rather a reflection of BRICS countries expressing a collective view," he said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-threatens-to-enrich-uranium-to-weapons-grade-if-attacked-1778861748246/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-threatens-to-enrich-uranium-to-weapons-grade-if-attacked-1778861748246/embed</a>&nbsp;He also highlighted concerns over unilateral tariffs and their impact on developing nations. "Regarding the question on trade and unilateral tariffs (Paragraph 42), there was a discussion on the global economic outlook and concerns regarding unilateral measures and their disproportionate impact on developing countries. Our focus remains on a rule-based, non-discriminatory, and inclusive multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core," he said.&nbsp;The BRICS Chair’s Statement and Outcome Document noted the growing global polarization and distrust while urging collective international efforts to strengthen peace and security. Ministers emphasized resolving international disputes through dialogue, consultation, diplomacy, and preventive measures under the framework of the UN Charter. The statement also highlighted the importance of mediation, regional cooperation, peacekeeping missions, and conflict prevention initiatives to ensure the peaceful settlement of crises.

BRICS Foreign Ministers reached a broad consensus on global governance reforms, terrorism, Palestine, trade, and diplomacy, says MEA Secretary Sudhakar Dalela

Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, on Friday (May 15) said BRICS members found common ground on almost all issues across the three pillars of cooperation during the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Addressing a special media briefing by the Ministry of External Affairs, Dalela said the outcome document reflects a shared position on global economic governance reforms. "Regarding the first question about the result of this meeting: as I mentioned, we have an Outcome Document posted online which contains 63 paragraphs. As Chair, it is our responsibility to facilitate dialogue among all members. I am happy to share that on almost all matters across the three verticals of our partnership, we found common ground," he said. Dalela said that the comprehensive outcome document is a positive step for the grouping. "The fact that we have a strong outcome document covering global governance, agriculture, health, the UNSC, and terrorism is very positive. The document reflects a common position on the reform of global economic governance, the condemnation of terrorism, climate change, and human-centric AI. I would request everyone to study this document carefully. It provides a very good basis for our preparation for the summit in the second half of this year. We have more than 20 thematic ministerial tracks coming up, which will feed into the summit. I am confident we will continue to build consensus," he said. Also Read: ‘Totally false’: PM Modi dismisses media report on proposed foreign travel tax Speaking on West Asia, Dalela acknowledged that some members expressed differing opinions but stressed that diplomacy remained central to discussions. "Regarding the situation in West Asia, there was a frank and candid sharing of assessments. It is a fact that there were differing views among some members regarding that specific situation. However, the members shared perspectives, including the need for an early resolution of the crisis, the value of diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, and the importance of safe maritime commerce. As Chair, we reflected these views transparently. While there were some differing perspectives on regional elements, we managed to build consensus on nearly everything else. We will continue to engage through the Sherpa channel to find common ground on the remaining issues," he said. On Palestine, Dalela reiterated BRICS’ long-standing position supporting a sovereign Palestinian state. "Regarding the question of Palestine, BRICS has had a very coherent and clear view. If you look at previous declarations, we have maintained a common stance. The ministers candidly discussed this and articulated that common view again, calling for the creation of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. I don't see this as a departure, but rather a reflection of BRICS countries expressing a collective view," he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-war-tehran-threatens-to-enrich-uranium-to-weapons-grade-if-attacked-1778861748246/embed He also highlighted concerns over unilateral tariffs and their impact on developing nations. "Regarding the question on trade and unilateral tariffs (Paragraph 42), there was a discussion on the global economic outlook and concerns regarding unilateral measures and their disproportionate impact on developing countries. Our focus remains on a rule-based, non-discriminatory, and inclusive multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core," he said. The BRICS Chair’s Statement and Outcome Document noted the growing global polarization and distrust while urging collective international efforts to strengthen peace and security. Ministers emphasized resolving international disputes through dialogue, consultation, diplomacy, and preventive measures under the framework of the UN Charter. The statement also highlighted the importance of mediation, regional cooperation, peacekeeping missions, and conflict prevention initiatives to ensure the peaceful settlement of crises.

BRICS members reached a consensus on global governance, trade, terrorism, and Palestine despite differing views on West Asia

'On almost all matters, we found common ground despite differences': MEA on BRICS

A two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers ended in deadlock on Friday (May 15), failing to produce a unified joint statement after sharp divisions erupted over the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.The diplomatic impasse forced host nation India, which holds the 2026 BRICS chair, to release only a “chair’s statement and outcome document” rather than a traditional joint communique, news agency Reuters reported. The document explicitly acknowledged that “there were differing views among some members as regards the situation in the West Asia/Middle East region.” The fracture highlights the structural friction within the expanded 10-member bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, and recent inductees Iran and the United Arab Emirates as it struggles to maintain a cohesive geopolitical identity amidst active conflict.&nbsp;At Bharat Mandapam, Iran condemned and termed acts by the US and Israel "unlawful aggression".&nbsp;The current conflict, now in its 77th day, began on February 28 with heavy airstrikes on Iranian infrastructure, triggering a major global energy crisis after Iran effectively choked off maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-us-talks-pakistan-mediation-lavrov-india-role-1778840109808">Iran says Pakistan mediation not failed yet; Lavrov backs India’s bigger role</a>&nbsp;However, Iran’s diplomatic push ran directly into resistance from the UAE. Tehran has launched multiple missile and drone strikes against Emirati territory since the conflict began, accusing Abu Dhabi of aiding Western military efforts. Speaking at a press conference following the conclusion of the talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that a single member state had blocked key sections of the proposed joint text. While Araghchi refrained from naming the UAE directly, his remarks left little doubt about the culprit.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-visit-russia-later-this-year-lavrov-says-open-to-everything-indian-partners-are-interested-in-1778844233245">PM Modi confirms Russia visit: Lavrov says ‘open to everything’ for India</a>&nbsp;"We only hit American military bases and American military installations which are unfortunately on their soil," Araghchi stated, attempting to downplay direct animosity with the Gulf state. "I hope by the time that we come for the summit, they come to a good understanding that Iran is a neighbour... we have to live with each other."&nbsp;The UAE Foreign Ministry did not immediately offer a public response to Araghchi’s comments. The lack of consensus placed India in a complex diplomatic tightrope. As the world's third-largest oil consumer, New Delhi has been heavily hit by rising fuel prices driven by the Hormuz blockade, through which 20% of global oil flows. Yet, India must carefully balance its strategic partnerships with Washington and Israel against its deep bilateral ties with Gulf oil exporters and Iran.&nbsp;While the final chair's statement noted broad consensus on upholding international law and preserving safe maritime commerce, the failure to issue a formal declaration underscores the reality of an expanded BRICS: a bloc united on changing the Global South narrative, but deeply fractured by regional wars.

A key BRICS ministerial meeting in India has ended without a joint statement after bitter divisions erupted over the US-Israeli war on Iran.

A two-day meeting of BRICS foreign ministers ended in deadlock on Friday (May 15), failing to produce a unified joint statement after sharp divisions erupted over the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.The diplomatic impasse forced host nation India, which holds the 2026 BRICS chair, to release only a “chair’s statement and outcome document” rather than a traditional joint communique, news agency Reuters reported. The document explicitly acknowledged that “there were differing views among some members as regards the situation in the West Asia/Middle East region.” The fracture highlights the structural friction within the expanded 10-member bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, and recent inductees Iran and the United Arab Emirates as it struggles to maintain a cohesive geopolitical identity amidst active conflict. At Bharat Mandapam, Iran condemned and termed acts by the US and Israel "unlawful aggression". The current conflict, now in its 77th day, began on February 28 with heavy airstrikes on Iranian infrastructure, triggering a major global energy crisis after Iran effectively choked off maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Also read: Iran says Pakistan mediation not failed yet; Lavrov backs India’s bigger role However, Iran’s diplomatic push ran directly into resistance from the UAE. Tehran has launched multiple missile and drone strikes against Emirati territory since the conflict began, accusing Abu Dhabi of aiding Western military efforts. Speaking at a press conference following the conclusion of the talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that a single member state had blocked key sections of the proposed joint text. While Araghchi refrained from naming the UAE directly, his remarks left little doubt about the culprit. Also read: PM Modi confirms Russia visit: Lavrov says ‘open to everything’ for India "We only hit American military bases and American military installations which are unfortunately on their soil," Araghchi stated, attempting to downplay direct animosity with the Gulf state. "I hope by the time that we come for the summit, they come to a good understanding that Iran is a neighbour... we have to live with each other." The UAE Foreign Ministry did not immediately offer a public response to Araghchi’s comments. The lack of consensus placed India in a complex diplomatic tightrope. As the world's third-largest oil consumer, New Delhi has been heavily hit by rising fuel prices driven by the Hormuz blockade, through which 20% of global oil flows. Yet, India must carefully balance its strategic partnerships with Washington and Israel against its deep bilateral ties with Gulf oil exporters and Iran. While the final chair's statement noted broad consensus on upholding international law and preserving safe maritime commerce, the failure to issue a formal declaration underscores the reality of an expanded BRICS: a bloc united on changing the Global South narrative, but deeply fractured by regional wars.

A key BRICS ministerial meeting in India has ended without a joint statement after bitter divisions erupted over the US-Israeli war on Iran.

BRICS Summit ends without joint statement as Iran war exposes deep blocs divisions