Iran, UAE unite behind BRICS call for war restraint

Iran and the United Arab Emirates have both endorsed a joint statement from the BRICS group of nations, advocating for restraint during the ongoing war in the Middle East. This development marks a significant diplomatic step between the two countries, which have been at odds due to the conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in New Delhi, their highest-level interaction since the war began.

Both leaders discussed a range of regional and international issues, with a focus on de-escalation, stability, and efforts to promote peace and development in the region.

The BRICS summit, originally formed in 2009 to challenge the US-led global order, currently consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, and the UAE. Diplomats and organizers have been working to bridge the divide between Iran and the UAE, even as the US and Iran carry out tit-for-tat strikes. The joint BRICS declaration expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions, urging restraint and the avoidance of actions that could further exacerbate the situation.

It called for the protection of civilians, respect for state sovereignty, and the safeguarding of global trade, supply chains, energy flows, and maritime security.

While the joint statement may not directly influence the current geopolitical landscape, it demonstrates unity within the BRICS bloc and highlights the bloc's potential to play a role in shaping international rules and reforming institutions like the World Bank, IMF, and WTO. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the importance of translating unity into concrete results on the global stage.

China's Xi Jinping emphasized the need for a political settlement and permanent ceasefire in the Middle East, urging relevant parties to remain committed to such an outcome.