The BRICS bloc condemned the recent military strikes on Iranian territory, labeling them a clear violation of international law, without directly naming the United States or Israel.
This statement was adopted at the end of the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, where leaders denounced attacks on military, nuclear, and civilian infrastructure.
BRICS Facts
Founded by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS expanded last year to include new members such as Indonesia, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. The bloc now has 10 strategic partner countries, including Belarus, Cuba, and Vietnam.
Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping did not attend the BRICS summit for the first time since assuming office in 2012. This absence has raised questions about China’s commitment to the coalition amidst growing tensions in global politics.
As the world watches the unfolding dynamics, the ongoing conflicts, including those in Ukraine, underscore the complexities that BRICS faces in addressing both regional and international challenges. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin participated via videoconference, as he continues to limit foreign travel due to an international arrest warrant following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
BRICS Condemns ‘Illegal’ Strikes on Iran
“We condemn the military strikes against the Islamic Republic of Iran since June 13, 2025,” the leaders stated in the summit declaration, according to AFP. They added, “We further express serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities.”
Though the declaration avoided naming specific attackers, it represents a diplomatic win for Tehran, which has struggled to gain regional or global support following a 12-day bombing campaign by the Israeli military. This campaign culminated in US strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan.
The BRICS group includes not only Israel’s adversary, Iran, but also nations like Russia and China, which maintain ties with Tehran. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was expected to attend the summit before the attacks, but he sent Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in his place.
BRICS diplomats had debated how strongly to denounce Israel’s actions in Iran and Gaza, ultimately strengthening their language at Tehran’s request.
The strong wording, especially from countries like India and Brazil, indicates a shift in Global South sentiment against unilateral military actions. The group’s declaration also criticized Israel’s military actions in the Middle East while mentioning war-torn Ukraine only once.
