New Delhi, India – Web Desk (May 15, 2026): The BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in India has concluded without a joint statement – breaking tradition – due to sharp divisions among member states over the Iran war and the Middle East situation, according to diplomatic sources.
Instead of the customary joint communiqué, host country India issued only a Chair’s Statement at the end of the two-day meeting.
The New Delhi meeting brought together foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Discussions covered the Gaza war, the Strait of Hormuz situation, maritime trade, regional security, and global tensions.
Iran-UAE Rift Blocks Consensus
Diplomatic sources revealed that Iran wanted BRICS to openly condemn US and Israeli actions against Iran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, without naming the UAE, accused one member nation of blocking parts of the declaration.
Araghchi further stated that Iran had only targeted US military bases in the current conflict – even if those bases were located on UAE soil.
The UAE strongly rejected the Iranian allegations. UAE Deputy Foreign Minister Khalifa Shaheen Al Marrar accused Iran of targeting Emirati civilian installations and critical infrastructure since February 28, as well as disrupting international shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. He affirmed the UAE’s right to respond to any threats to its sovereignty and security.
Chair’s Statement Avoids Blame
The Chair’s Statement issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs acknowledged that member states held “differing views” on the Middle East situation. The statement called for a swift diplomatic solution in the Strait of Hormuz and the Middle East, respect for regional sovereignty, adherence to international law, and protection of global maritime trade.
On Gaza, BRICS members affirmed Gaza as part of Palestinian territories and supported keeping the West Bank and Gaza united under the Palestinian Authority. However, one member nation reportedly expressed reservations on certain points regarding this issue as well.
