“BRICS Condemns Wars in Gaza, Iran, and Kashmir—But Remains Silent on Ukraine Conflict”

“BRICS Condemns Wars in Gaza, Iran, and Kashmir—But Remains Silent on Ukraine Conflict”
[Rio de Janeiro | July 7, 2025]

In a joint declaration released on Sunday (July 7) during the BRICS summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the ten-nation bloc strongly condemned recent airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iran, labeling them a “clear violation of international law.” The alliance also reaffirmed its strong support for the establishment of a Palestinian state.

However, despite the Ukraine war entering its fourth year—with Russia, a founding member of BRICS, as one of the main parties—BRICS remained conspicuously silent on that conflict. Instead, the bloc criticized recent cross-border strikes by Ukraine inside Russian territory.

Over 30 countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS, though Argentina withdrew its application under President Javier Milei’s administration.

In its statement, BRICS denounced the joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes in Iran last June, calling them violations of international law and a threat to Middle East stability.
The bloc stated, “It is essential to ensure nuclear and humanitarian safety during armed conflicts.”

Gaza War and Palestinian Statehood

Regarding the ongoing war in Gaza, now entering its 21st month, BRICS expressed deep concern and condemned the use of “hunger as a weapon of war.”
The group also opposed the politicization and militarization of humanitarian aid and reiterated support for UN agency UNRWA, which Israel has banned.

The bloc reaffirmed:
“We remain committed to the creation of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.”

Opposition to Unilateral Sanctions

BRICS firmly opposed unilateral sanctions, especially those imposed by the United States, calling them coercive and illegal under international law.

Iran has faced sanctions since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which were significantly tightened by the Trump administration in 2018.
Russia has also been under severe Western sanctions since it invaded Ukraine in 2022.

The declaration said, “Such measures violate international law and fundamental human rights.”

Trump’s Tariff Threats and Global Economic Concerns

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that countries failing to reach trade agreements with the U.S. would face increased tariffs.

In response, BRICS voiced concern over protectionist policies, tariff barriers, and disruptions to global supply chains.

Three BRICS members—China, India, and Brazil—are among the world’s ten largest economies.

Response to the Pahalgam Attack in Kashmir

BRICS condemned the killing of 26 civilians two months ago in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir. While the statement avoided directly naming Pakistan, it came after a four-day border skirmish between India and Pakistan.
Pakistan denied involvement and demanded a “transparent investigation.”

BRICS asserted, “Zero tolerance is required in the fight against terrorism, and double standards must not be applied.”

Notable Silence on the Ukraine War

Despite the comprehensive nature of the declaration, BRICS made no explicit comment on the Ukraine conflict. Only a brief mention stated:
“A sustainable and peaceful resolution is needed.”