Beijing: The BRICS nations have issued a strong condemnation of recent military actions against Iran, the ongoing terrorist violence in Syria, and the Israeli occupation of Syrian territories, while also affirming Gaza as an integral part of Palestine.
According to Anadolu Agency, a joint statement was released by the BRICS countries on Sunday, highlighting their disapproval of military strikes on Iran, which they consider a breach of international law and the UN Charter. The statement expressed deep concerns about the escalating security situation in the Middle East following these attacks.
The declaration also underscored the importance of maintaining nuclear safeguards and security to protect civilians and the environment, specifically addressing concerns over assaults on 'civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.' The BRICS nations reiterated their support for diplomatic efforts to tackle regional challenges and urged the United Nations Security Council to take action on the matter.
The conflict between Israel and Iran began on June 13, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military, nuclear, and civilian sites, resulting in significant casualties. Iran responded with missile and drone strikes, culminating in a US-brokered ceasefire on June 24.
In addition to the situation in Iran, the BRICS countries condemned terrorist violence in Syria and the Israeli occupation of Syrian territory. They welcomed the lifting of unilateral sanctions on Damascus and expressed hope that this would aid in reviving the Syrian economy and initiating reconstruction efforts.
The group also addressed the situation in Palestine, declaring the Gaza Strip as an "inseparable part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory" and called for the unification of the West Bank and Gaza under Palestinian Authority control. They reaffirmed the Palestinian right to self-determination and expressed concern over Israel's ongoing actions and humanitarian aid blockades.
The BRICS nations urged for negotiations to achieve an immediate, permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and other occupied territories, advocating for Palestinian involvement in reconstruction efforts and opposing policies that may lead to demographic changes in the region.
Lastly, the joint declaration addressed trade issues, voicing concerns over unilateral tariffs and protectionism, which they argue disrupt global trade. The statement called for support of a rules-based, non-discriminatory multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization playing a central role.
This declaration comes as the deadline for various tariff negotiations approaches, with US President Donald Trump pressing for new trade deals and indicating no intention of extending the negotiation period.