BRICS Deliberations: Navigating Tensions in West Asia

The UAE's position on the West Asia conflict is delaying a unified BRICS stance, with Iran calling for India's initiatives to forge peace in the region. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, visiting India, emphasized Iran's and Oman's efforts to establish a new framework for merchant vessel passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Amid BRICS discussions, Gharibabadi underscored differences with the UAE over US-Israel relations, complicating consensus efforts. He reaffirmed Iran's commitment to the Chabahar port project and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz — pivotal for global oil and LNG transit, now impacted by US sanctions.

The BRICS grouping, now expanded to include new members like Iran and the UAE, holds a crucial conclave chaired by India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. As tensions rise in West Asia, BRICS focuses on peace initiatives and economic impact, underscoring its global influence.

(With inputs from agencies.)