Trump’s Tariffs Invite Rebuke At BRICS Summit, Expand India’s Strategic Autonomy

India’s chairship of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi became a defining diplomatic moment, with Trump’s unilateralism ironically binding BRICS members together and expanding India’s strategic space, Sreemoy Talukdar of FirstPost reported.

The New Delhi Declaration condemned unilateral coercive measures, criticised tariff wars, addressed terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, and reinforced India’s moderating role within the Global South.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership at the summit was shaped by the disruptive policies of Donald Trump. His aggressive unilateralism, hyper-transactionalism diplomacy, militarism, bullying of allies, and protectionist tariffs compelled BRICS members to shelve differences and project unity. India’s idea within BRICS was to foster cooperation and limit the impact of unpredictable hegemonic actions.

Western media largely ignored the summit, framing it narrowly as a binary of dethroning or failing to dethrone the US dollar. Yet the real achievement lay in consensus-building among countries with profound internal conflicts. India managed to thrash out a joint statement despite severe bilateral tensions among members, demonstrating the structural effectiveness of BRICS.

The declaration sent a clear message to Washington. Without naming the US, it condemned unilateral coercive measures contrary to international law, stressing their negative implications for development, health, food security, and human rights.

It criticised unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures inconsistent with WTO rules, directly referencing Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. It demanded restoration of a functioning WTO dispute settlement mechanism, targeting US obstruction of the Appellate Body.

On West Asia, the declaration voiced serious concern over attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards. This amounted to a rebuke of US and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, framing them as violations of international law. India’s endorsement of such language reflected compromise within consensus diplomacy.

India secured extraordinary gains in return. Paragraph 40 condemned terrorism unequivocally, referencing the April 2025 Jammu and Kashmir attack that killed 26 people.

By situating the attack in Jammu and Kashmir rather than Pahalgam, the text validated India’s sovereign space and forced China to concede in writing that Jammu and Kashmir belongs to India. This was a substantial diplomatic achievement.

Beyond geopolitics, the summit advanced frameworks for resilient supply chains and cross-border payment integration. Paragraph 90 highlighted diverse opinions on payment mechanisms. Russia, China, and Iran sought alternatives to Western financial systems, while India preferred bilateral local currency mechanisms. India’s nuanced position reflected its need to remain within the US-led financial ecosystem while retaining options.

India’s moderating role was evident. It resisted creating an anti-West bloc or replacing US dominance with Chinese dominance. Instead, it sought reforms of Bretton Woods Institutions to make them agile, inclusive, and representative. If reforms fail, India’s vision is for BRICS to prepare alternatives.

The summit expanded India’s strategic autonomy. Modi’s ability to embrace both Benjamin Netanyahu and Masoud Pezeshkian symbolised India’s unique position. The image of Modi clasping the Iranian president’s hand became iconic. India used BRICS to engage multiple powers simultaneously, evaluating partnerships strictly on developmental and security needs.

From New Delhi’s standpoint, BRICS functioned as a buffer against global unpredictability. Energy security cooperation and alternative financial routing systems created systemic shock absorbers. India executed this hedging strategy while safeguarding integration with Western markets, capital, and technology. It avoided Cold War-style bloc politics, proving indispensable to both Western and non-Western partners.

India’s demonstrated capacity to manage competing interests validated its leadership in a volatile era. The summit showed India could secure its economic future while championing a cooperative global order.

PM Modi’s interventions also proposed mechanisms like a BRICS Troika for continuity and a Seafarers Emergency Support Network, addressing maritime security amid rising attacks on commercial vessels.

The New Delhi Declaration, adopted unanimously, covered terrorism, trade, governance, health, technology, and sustainable development. India’s chairship ensured BRICS remained inclusive, practical, and people-centric. The summit reinforced India’s role as a consensus-builder, agenda-setter, and rule-shaper for the Global South.

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President Putin Stresses Reliable B2B Ties As Backbone of Global Economic Order At BRICS Forum

Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasised that reliable business‑to‑business ties and economic partnerships form the backbone of international economic relations.

He stated that such ties help overcome the problems facing the world, as he addressed the BRICS Business Forum 2026 in New Delhi.

He remarked that the gathering demonstrated the growing interest in strengthening business contacts and relations across the BRICS space. He underlined that reliable economic partnerships build relations in a stronger and more resilient manner, enabling nations to confront global challenges more effectively.

Putin noted that the world is undergoing structural, deep and profound shifts. He explained that the so‑called old leaders, who were the vanguard of economic growth in the second half of the twentieth century, are being replaced by new engines of growth.

He clarified that the term old was only a formality, as these leaders still possess great strengths, well‑developed infrastructure and significant scientific achievements. He linked the importance of economic ties to these broader changes in the global economy, stressing that shifts in the international economic order are natural and continuous.

He added that it is in the nature of humanity and the economy that change cannot be stopped. He said the world is always changing, and this is attested to by objective facts observed in the last five years. 

Highlighting the growing economic weight of BRICS, Putin pointed to the contribution of BRICS countries compared with the G7. He stated that in the last five years, BRICS nations contributed more than 40 per cent of the world’s GDP, while the G7 accounted for only 29 per cent.

The BRICS Business Forum 2026 was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BRICS leaders, the Chairs of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa were among the dignitaries present.

The Forum is the flagship private sector platform of the BRICS grouping and is convened annually in the Summit host country on the eve of the Leaders’ Summit. It brings together business leaders, Ministers and Heads of State to discuss trade, investment, finance, technology and development challenges shaping the BRICS economic agenda.

The Forum also serves as a platform where key ideas and suggestions from the Council are presented and discussed. It plays a strong agenda‑setting role, with its conclusions and the Business Council’s recommendations regularly reflected in BRICS Summit declarations and follow‑up work plans.

The recommendations particularly cover intra‑BRICS trade, investment, digital economy, MSMEs, standards cooperation and value chain integration.

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit under its 2026 chairship. The chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with development, sustainability and innovation forming key areas of focus.

BRICS has emerged as an important platform for coordination among major emerging economies and for advancing the interests of the Global South in multilateral institutions. Its agenda covers development, finance, technology, trade and people‑to‑people exchanges.

The grouping currently comprises 11 countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the UAE. India’s chairship comes amid global economic fragmentation, technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, climate change and resource pressures. 

For India, the 2026 chairship is focused on translating the expanded representation of BRICS into meaningful cooperation and tangible outcomes, while building consensus among its diverse members and strengthening the effectiveness of existing mechanisms.

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Xi Jinping Pushes Global South Unity As He Heads To BRICS Summit In Delhi

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to attend the BRICS summit in New Delhi as India begins hosting the gathering amid pressing global economic concerns linked to conflicts including the US-Iran war.

His participation follows his presence at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek last week, where he sought to galvanise solidarity and cooperation across the Global South.

Xinhua reported that both BRICS and SCO have expanded their membership and networks of developing partners. Together, their members represent more than half of the world’s population and about 30 per cent of the global economy. This year marks the 25th founding anniversary of the SCO and the 20th anniversary of BRICS cooperation, milestones that highlight their growing influence.

Xi has consistently backed the expansion of both groupings, introducing initiatives such as the “BRICS Plus” cooperation approach and the concept of building an SCO community with a shared future. At the SCO summit, he called for stronger cooperation among Global South countries, declaring that the SCO “takes root in the Global South, its heart beats with the Global South, and it is an important pillar of South-South cooperation.” He also described BRICS as “standing at the forefront of the Global South.”

Xinhua noted that Xi is expected to advance proposals on Global South cooperation at the BRICS summit. He has repeatedly emphasised development and shared prosperity, stating during the 2024 BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, that “The Global South emerges for development and prospers through development. We should make ourselves the main driving force for common development.”

China’s Global Development Initiative has mobilised more than $23 billion, supported over 1,800 livelihood projects, and sponsored training for more than 200,000 people over five years. Converted into Indian currency, this amounts to approximately ₹1,91,125 crores.

Xi has argued that international affairs should be discussed collectively rather than dictated by a few countries, pointing to the Global Governance Initiative as a mechanism for developing nations to coordinate positions and strengthen their influence.

The editorial highlighted the role of institutions such as the New Development Bank and the proposed SCO Development Bank, alongside Xi’s call for international cooperation on artificial intelligence. China has urged that Global South countries receive support to bridge AI and digital divides and participate more fully in emerging areas.

Beyond BRICS and SCO, Xi has promoted Global South cooperation through mechanisms including the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the China-ASEAN summit.

He has pledged that “No matter how the international landscape evolves, we in China will always keep the Global South in our heart, and maintain our roots in the Global South.” His presence in New Delhi is expected to reinforce these commitments and shape the summit’s agenda towards collective development and cooperation.

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India And Brazil Push For UNSC Seats As BRICS Drives De-Dollarisation, Permanent UNSC Seats And Global South Resilience

BRICS has emerged as a coalition of nations that share a history of colonialism or imperialism, positioning itself as an alternative to Western poles of power. India, hosting the 2026 BRICS Summit, was under British rule for more than a century before independence in 1947.

Brazil endured Portuguese colonisation, South Africa faced both colonialism and apartheid, and China suffered repeated imperial interventions. Several newer BRICS members also experienced colonial domination.

The central question remains whether these nations, once excluded from shaping the international order, can now reshape institutions or carve space within them on their own terms.

The grouping has clarified that it does not seek to dismantle existing institutions entirely. Instead, BRICS has become a voice for the Global South, advocating for a multipolar world. A major project in this pursuit is the push for permanent seats at the United Nations Security Council for India and Brazil. 

Although China and Russia already hold permanent membership, the bloc has consistently argued for extending permanent seats and veto powers to India and Brazil.

The 2025 BRICS declaration, recalling the 2022 Beijing and 2023 Johannesburg-II Leaders’ Declarations, reaffirmed Chinese and Russian support for these aspirations.

India’s case is strengthened by its role as the second-largest contributor to UNSC peacekeeping missions in terms of troops and police, behind Nepal as of May 2026. In terms of military contribution alone, India leads globally.

While several UNSC members remain embroiled in violent conflicts in West Asia and Europe, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly emphasised peace, declaring that this is “not an era of war,” a message reiterated during his bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Bishkek.

Scholars have long argued for UNSC expansion to ensure continental representation. Eva Parvanova of Angel Kanchev University of Ruse has presented a case for India, Brazil, Japan, and Germany—the G-4 grouping formed in 2004.

She highlighted India’s population dividend, nuclear capability, and peacekeeping record as compelling reasons for permanent membership. German-Brazilian scholar Oliver Stuenkel has similarly argued for India and Brazil, while noting India’s private interests in South Asia tied to permanent membership.

On the economic front, BRICS has challenged Western institutions by establishing the New Development Bank in 2015 as an alternative to the World Bank and IMF. The NDB has approved financing worth ₹3,57,000 crores for 139 projects.

In 2021, the bank welcomed its first non-founding members, expanding its reach among emerging markets and developing countries. A key initiative has been the expansion of local currency financing, reducing reliance on the dollar.

De-dollarisation remains a critical goal. Mumbai-based academician Sanjay Ranade emphasised its importance but warned against over-reliance on China. He noted that BRICS is working on interoperable digital payments architecture, driven largely by China’s digital infrastructure.

While all members desire de-dollarisation, trust in China remains a challenge. Ranade argued that this burden must be overcome if BRICS is to meaningfully challenge Euro-American dominance.

Epistemologically, BRICS does not aim to dismantle global systems but seeks to foster multipolarity. 

The bloc holds summits and meetings across diverse fields—science, culture, economics, health, and climate change—while maintaining regular consultations among Finance Ministers, Foreign Ministers, and National Security Advisors. This creates space for a parallel epistemology, with knowledge flowing from the Global South.

On the coloniality of knowledge, BRICS nations are urged not to adopt Western definitions of development and modernity. Instead, civilizational states such as India, China, and Iran should define modernity from their own perspectives.

The bloc can further decolonise by adopting inclusive terminology, moving away from Eurocentric labels such as “Middle East.” With Iran, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia participating in BRICS summits, the grouping has the opportunity to reshape regional narratives.

Prime Minister Modi has consistently opposed the “Macaulay mindset,” advocating for resilience against Western constructs.

The 2026 BRICS Summit, themed “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” underscores this vision. India’s leadership within BRICS positions it to amplify the voice of the Global South, advancing resilience against Western institutions while promoting inclusive development.

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Global Leaders Converging In Delhi As BRICS Expands To A Global Powerhouse

The national capital has been adorned with illuminated installations and vibrant posters as India prepares to host the BRICS Summit 2026 at Bharat Mandapam on 12–13 September.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the high-profile gathering, which will bring together heads of state, foreign delegates, leaders of international organisations, and dignitaries representing member states, partner countries, and outreach invitees.

India holds the BRICS Chair for the 2026 edition, with proceedings guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”.

The alliance has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception as the BRIC grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, which first convened at the UN General Assembly in New York in 2006 and held its inaugural summit in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009.

South Africa joined in 2011, expanding the bloc to BRICS. A major expansion followed in January 2024, when Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE became full members, with Indonesia joining in January 2025.

Today, the alliance comprises 11 full members and an expanding array of partner nations, commanding significant global economic and diplomatic influence.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend, marking his second visit to India in less than a year after the bilateral summit in December 2025. PM Modi personally renewed the invitation during their meeting at the SCO summit in Bishkek on 31 August.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is also expected, though his participation has not been formally confirmed. If he attends, it will be his first visit to India since the 2019 informal summit in Mamallapuram with PM Modi. A bilateral meeting between the two leaders is widely anticipated.

Other confirmed attendees include South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will also participate. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is likely to attend, though a formal announcement is pending.

Delhi Police have identified more than 35 roads where traffic will be controlled or diverted during the summit. Restrictions will primarily affect central, southern, and adjoining parts of Delhi, with temporary stoppages expected during VIP motorcades.

The summit schedule begins on Saturday, 12 September, with the arrival of BRICS leaders at Bharat Mandapam.

The leaders will gather for a closed session titled “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism”.

They will then witness the “Bharat Innovates Exhibition (Leaders of BRICS Member Countries)”, followed by a family photo on the lawns and a joint tree plantation ceremony.

The day will conclude with a gala dinner hosted by PM Modi at Bharat Mandapam.

On Sunday, 13 September, leaders of BRICS partner countries and outreach invitees will arrive, followed by a family photo.

The session titled “Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability: Shaping the Future for Inclusive Global Growth” will then commence in the Summit Hall of Bharat Mandapam.

The summit is expected to highlight India’s leadership role in shaping global governance reforms, strengthening multilateralism, and advancing inclusive growth for the Global South.

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'India To Host Most Fruitful BRICS Summit With Global Leaders In Attendance' Says South African High Commissioner

South African High Commissioner to India Anil Sooklal has said that the upcoming BRICS Summit in New Delhi will be “fruitful” on several fronts, with all BRICS leaders confirmed to attend.

He emphasised the strategic importance of the gathering, highlighting its role in advancing the Global South and boosting India-South Africa trade ties.

The South African envoy stressed that the presence of leaders such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa underscores the summit’s global significance.

He described it as not just a meeting of the Global South but of major global leaders, reflecting the growing weight of BRICS in shaping international discourse.

Sooklal noted that India is expected to host a highly productive summit, with discussions spanning resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability. He said the summit will be a major diplomatic event, with New Delhi set to welcome leaders of BRICS Member and Partner Countries as well as Outreach Invitees at Bharat Mandapam on September 12-13.

On the evolution of BRICS, he explained that the grouping has brought the Global South to the forefront of the global geopolitical environment.

For the first time, countries of the Global South have emerged as a powerful formation, working collectively for the benefit of the wider international community. He emphasised that BRICS has created a platform for collective action, not just for the Global South but for global stability and cooperation.

The envoy also highlighted the economic dimension of the summit. Bilateral trade between India and South Africa, currently valued at around $12.5 billion annually, is expected to receive a major boost. Over 120 South African businesses will accompany President Ramaphosa to the summit, marking the largest-ever trade delegation from South Africa to India.

These firms will participate in the BRICS Business Forum and side events focused on India-South Africa trade, signalling growing interest in the Indian market. Converted to Indian currency, this trade volume amounts to approximately ₹1,04,125 crores annually, underscoring the scale of economic engagement.

Sooklal pointed out that South Africa is India’s largest trading partner on the African continent, while globally, India ranks fourth among South Africa’s trading partners. He said there is vast potential to expand trade further, with Indian companies also showing strong interest in entering the African market using South Africa as a base. Major Indian multinationals are already present in South Africa and performing well, reflecting the mutual benefits of deeper economic ties.

In addition to trade, Sooklal reiterated South Africa’s call for urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council. He described the UNSC as outdated and paralysed, unable to effectively address global conflicts.

He noted that reform has been a consistent demand in every BRICS declaration and will again feature prominently in the upcoming summit. He stressed that the Security Council must reflect the realities of 2026 rather than those of 1945, echoing the views of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

India’s BRICS Chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, reflecting Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a people-centric approach rooted in the spirit of “Humanity First”. The summit is expected to reinforce this vision while advancing collective goals of the Global South.

All eyes are now on New Delhi as India prepares to host this key diplomatic gathering, which is set to shape the trajectory of BRICS and its role in global governance.

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India Demands Urgent UNSC Reform And Greater Global South Representation

India has strongly reiterated its demand for urgent UNSC reforms, stressing that the Council must reflect present-day realities and give greater representation to the Global South. Ambassador Yojna Patel emphasised that reforms must include expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories, text-based negotiations, and stronger transparency in working methods.

India has called for urgent reforms in the United Nations Security Council, arguing that the decision-making structure must adapt to contemporary realities. Ambassador Yojna Patel, Charge d’Affaires of India’s Permanent Mission to the UN, said the need for reforming the Council was more pressing than ever before.

She pointed out that the world of 1945 has changed beyond recognition, with UN membership having grown fourfold since then. Patel stressed that the outcome of one conflict 80 years ago cannot determine the composition, dynamics, approaches and working methods of the Council for perpetuity. She urged that change must happen at the earliest.

India’s position on UNSC reforms was reiterated clearly. Patel said expansion must occur in both categories of membership, with greater representation for developing countries and the Global South. She insisted that this could only be achieved through text-based negotiations with defined milestones and timelines.

She highlighted that discussions on improving the Council’s working methods should not be done in isolation. Patel explained that working methods reform is inherently linked to other clusters such as membership categories, regional representation and the veto issue. She warned against treating these matters separately.

Patel raised concerns over the continued provisional nature of the Security Council’s Rules of Procedure. She argued that existing frameworks should not be cited as obstacles to implementing reforms.

The provisional nature of the rules, she said, suggests they can be amended suitably from time to time. Therefore, existing working methods must not be used as a challenge to block membership expansion.

India also called for greater transparency in the Council. Patel said non-permanent members must have equal access to documents and information. She stressed that access to historical documents must not remain the exclusive preserve of a few.

She further emphasised that countries contributing troops and police to UN peacekeeping missions must have a role in decision-making on key issues. Patel explained that Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) and Police Contributing Countries (PCCs) go far beyond UNSC membership and must be part of the decision-making architecture on mandates and resources.

India urged the Council to resolve delays in finalising chairs of subsidiary bodies. Patel called for a fixed timeline for the process, saying Note 507 must be amended to include a definitive and non-negotiable timeline for finalising chairs.

On terrorism, Patel warned that UNSC membership must not be instrumentalised to pursue political interests. She said presence in the Council should not be used to legitimise terrorists by attempting to de-list them or to list other entities as terrorist organisations based solely on political considerations without objective criteria or documentation.

In her concluding remarks, Patel called for stronger coordination between the Security Council and the UN General Assembly. She described the Assembly as the most universal and democratic arm of the UN and said working methods must be reviewed to pave the way for closer interaction between the Council and other principal organs.

India’s intervention reflects its long-standing demand for comprehensive reforms, including expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories, greater representation for Africa and the Global South, and stronger accountability in working methods.

The call aligns with broader debates on reforming multilateral institutions to ensure they remain effective and legitimate in addressing today’s challenges.

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India And African Union Coordinate To Finalise Dates For Postponed India-Africa Summit

India and the African Union are actively engaged in discussions to finalise mutually convenient dates for the next India-Africa Summit.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed this development on Friday, underscoring New Delhi’s strong and historic partnership with African nations.

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing a bi-weekly press briefing in New Delhi, explained that the summit had been postponed after consultations with the African Union. He said both sides are now working towards identifying a suitable time to hold the event. He emphasised that the postponement was a joint decision taken in light of prevailing circumstances.

Jaiswal noted, “You know the circumstances under which the India-Africa Summit had to be postponed, and this we did in consultation with the African Union. We are looking forward to organising the India-Africa Summit, and both sides are in touch with each other for a convenient date as to when it can be organised.”

The Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit, which was scheduled to take place in India earlier this year, had to be postponed due to the Ebola outbreak in Africa. This decision reflected the shared concern for health security and the importance of ensuring safe conditions for such a high-level gathering.

In his remarks, Jaiswal also highlighted India’s ties with the African continent. He referred to the recent Africa Day celebrations held in New Delhi, which were attended by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. He pointed out that Africa Day is celebrated annually with great enthusiasm, symbolising solidarity, support, and partnership between India and Africa.

He said, “Africa Day was a big celebration. Each year we celebrate our solidarity, support and partnership with Africa with a lot of fanfare. This time, the External Affairs Minister attended the Africa Day celebrations. He had attended earlier as well.”

Jaiswal further underlined that India shares very strong and historic ties with countries across Africa. He stressed that New Delhi continues to work closely with the continent through development partnerships. He described these efforts as part of India’s Global South solidarity and South-South cooperation, which aim to strengthen collective progress and mutual growth.

India’s development cooperation with Africa has been extensive, involving projects across infrastructure, healthcare, education, and digital connectivity. Over the years, India has extended lines of credit, capacity-building programs, and technical assistance to African nations, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in Africa’s development journey.

The reaffirmation of India’s commitment to Africa comes at a time when both sides are seeking to deepen cooperation in areas such as maritime security, defence training, trade, investment, and multilateral engagement. The forthcoming summit is expected to provide a platform to consolidate these initiatives and chart new pathways for collaboration.

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Iran Claims Drone And Missile Strikes On US Military Sites In Bahrain And Kuwait After American Counter-Offensives

Iran has claimed responsibility for launching drone and missile strikes against US-linked military facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait in direct retaliation for American strikes on its southern provinces. 

According to the state-affiliated Fars News Agency, Iranian army drones targeted the Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain early on Wednesday morning, describing the attack as a response to what it called a hostile invasion by US forces.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) separately announced that it had carried out a large-scale joint missile and drone operation against 85 US military facilities.

The IRGC stated that its Navy and Aerospace Forces struck key sites including Salman Port, the US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, and the Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait. This marks one of the most extensive retaliatory operations claimed by Iran in recent months.

In addition, an IRGC spokesperson asserted that Iranian air defences had successfully shot down an American MQ-9 drone over Bushehr Province. The spokesperson said the drone was destroyed by advanced air defence systems in the skies over Khormuj, following what Tehran described as aerial aggression by US forces.

These Iranian claims come in the immediate aftermath of US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirming that its forces executed a series of counter-offensives on 7 July. The American strikes reportedly hit more than 80 military positions inside Iran using precision-guided munitions.

US defence officials emphasised that the operation was aimed at dismantling Tehran’s maritime offensive capabilities, targeting command-and-control networks, air defence systems, coastal radar installations, anti-ship missile sites, and over 60 IRGC small boats.

CENTCOM explained that the strikes were triggered by Iranian attacks on three commercial tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The vessels identified were the Marshall Islands-flagged M/T Al Rekayyat, the Saudi Arabia-flagged M/T Wedyan, and the Liberian-flagged M/T Cyprus Prosperity. In a statement, CENTCOM described Iran’s actions as unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement.

Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in the port cities of Bandar Abbas and Sirik, as well as blasts on Qeshm Island. Fires were said to have broken out at the Sirik pier and the Shahid Haqqani Port in Bandar Abbas. However, Iran’s official news agency IRNA, citing the Governor of Hormozgan province, reported that no civilian casualties had been recorded from the American strikes.

The Iranian Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, issued a strong warning on X, accusing Washington of committing major violations of the Memorandum of Understanding signed in June. He declared that Tehran would not fold under military or economic pressure, stating defiantly that “the era of bullying and extortion is over. It leads nowhere.”

This latest cycle of strikes and counter-strikes underscores the collapse of the fragile ceasefire established under the MoU. The US bombardments mark the first direct American kinetic action against Iran since late June, when a brief pause in hostilities had been achieved. The situation now points to a severe breakdown in diplomatic commitments and a dangerous escalation in the Gulf region.

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EAM Jaishankar Embarks On Gulf, US And EU Tour To Launch India’s UNSC 2028-29 Campaign

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will embark on a multi-nation tour covering Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman from 5 to 10 July. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that during this leg of the visit he will meet with his counterparts and the leadership of these countries.

The discussions will centre on enhancing bilateral relations and exchanging views on regional developments and issues of mutual interest. This outreach underscores India’s continuing engagement with the Gulf region, which remains vital for energy security, trade, and the welfare of the large Indian diaspora.

Following this, Jaishankar will travel to New York on 13 July. His visit to the United States will mark the formal launch of India’s official campaign for the United Nations Security Council tenure for the period 2028-29.

India’s candidature reflects its long-standing commitment to multilateralism and its consistent advocacy for reforms in the UN system. The campaign will highlight India’s contributions to peacekeeping, sustainable development, and its role as a voice for the Global South.

Later, Jaishankar will proceed to Brussels on 14 and 15 July. He will attend the third meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council. This forum has become a key mechanism for advancing cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, resilient supply chains, and trade facilitation.

In Brussels, Jaishankar will also interact with his Belgian counterparts, reinforcing India’s ties with the European Union and Belgium. These engagements are expected to deepen collaboration in areas such as digital transformation, green technologies, and strategic connectivity.

India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations has emphasised that the country’s deepening engagement with the UN is rooted in its steadfast commitment to dialogue and multilateralism. As a founding member of the UN, India has consistently supported the purposes and principles of the Charter. It has made significant contributions to the evolution of specialised programmes and agencies, ranging from health and education to humanitarian relief and peacekeeping operations.

India believes that the United Nations and the norms of international relations it has fostered remain the most effective means of addressing global challenges. Its candidature for the Security Council seat comes at a time when India has been a strong advocate for reforming the Council to reflect contemporary realities.

New Delhi has argued that the current structure does not adequately represent the aspirations of the Global South and emerging powers, and that expansion of both permanent and non-permanent membership is essential to ensure legitimacy and effectiveness.

This multi-nation visit by Jaishankar is therefore not only about strengthening bilateral ties with key partners in the Gulf, the United States and Europe, but also about positioning India as a responsible stakeholder in global governance.

The launch of the UNSC campaign will be a pivotal moment in India’s diplomatic calendar, signalling its readiness to contribute to shaping international peace and security in the coming decade.

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India Hosts BRICS Security Advisers’ Meeting To Address Emerging Global Threats

India will host the BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting in New Delhi from 22–23 June 2026, chaired by NSA Ajit Doval. The gathering will focus on non‑traditional security challenges, emerging technologies, and outcomes of recent BRICS working groups, marking India’s fourth chairship of the bloc.

India is set to convene the BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting on 22–23 June 2026 in New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the meeting will be chaired by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This high‑level dialogue will bring together the National Security Advisers and Heads of Delegation from all eleven BRICS member states.

The theme of the meeting is “Non‑traditional security challenges confronting the world today.” Delegates will deliberate on the rapidly evolving nature of global and national security threats. 

Particular emphasis will be placed on the role of new technologies in shaping emerging risks, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and digital vulnerabilities.

The participants will also review the outcomes of the recently held BRICS Joint Working Groups on Counter‑Terrorism and on Security in the use of Information and Communication Technologies. These reviews are expected to strengthen collective mechanisms for tackling transnational threats and to shape future cooperation among BRICS nations.

India holds the BRICS Chairship for the fourth time in 2026, having previously chaired the grouping in 2012, 2016, and 2021. The current chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” This reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s people‑centric and humanity‑first approach, articulated at the Rio Summit in 2025.

BRICS today comprises eleven major emerging markets and developing countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia. The grouping serves as a vital platform for consultation and cooperation on issues of global and regional significance, including political, economic, and security matters.

The official BRICS 2026 agenda highlights how the bloc’s scope has expanded considerably beyond its initial economic focus. It is now structured around three core pillars: political and security, economy and finance, and cultural and people‑to‑people exchanges.

Cooperation spans a wide range of global issues, including the fight against terrorism, climate change, food and energy security, telecommunications, agriculture, labour and employment, international financial architecture, trade, and the World Trade Organisation.

The NSA‑level meeting comes at a crucial time, ahead of the BRICS Leaders’ Summit scheduled in India later this year. It is expected to lay the groundwork for broader discussions on global governance, economic resilience, and strategic cooperation. The presence of senior security officials underscores the importance of addressing both traditional and non‑traditional threats in a rapidly changing international environment.

India’s leadership in hosting this meeting highlights its role as a key driver of dialogue within BRICS. By focusing on innovation, resilience, and sustainability, New Delhi aims to reinforce its position as a leading voice of the Global South and a net security provider in the region.

The discussions will not only strengthen BRICS cooperation but also contribute to shaping a more equitable and multipolar international order.

ANI

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Un Security Council Demands Iran Halt Attacks On Gulf States

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously passed a resolution demanding that Iran immediately cease its military attacks on Gulf countries, deeming them a flagrant violation of international law and a grave threat to global peace and security.

The vote saw 13 members in favour, with two abstentions and none opposed, marking a rare moment of near-consensus amid escalating regional tensions.

The resolution specifically calls for an end to all Iranian strikes against Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan. It underscores the disproportionate impact on civilian infrastructure, including energy facilities, hotels, and transport networks, which have suffered extensive damage since hostilities intensified.

Russia and China, the two nations that abstained, have voiced sharp criticism of the resolution's wording. They argue it unfairly omits any reference to the US-Israeli airstrikes on 28 February, which killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several top officials, thereby igniting the current conflict. Moscow and Beijing described the text as one-sided, failing to address the strikes' role as the catalyst for Iran's retaliatory campaign.

Those US-Israeli operations targeted key Iranian nuclear and military sites, reportedly crippling Tehran's advanced missile program and command structures. Iranian officials have since framed their responses as legitimate self-defence against 'aggressor states', though evidence from Gulf nations points to deliberate hits on non-military assets.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has escalated matters by seizing control of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for 20 per cent of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. This move has halted much of the traffic, with armed patrols enforcing a de facto blockade that Tehran justifies as a defensive perimeter.

The economic fallout has been swift and severe. Crude oil prices have surged beyond $150 per barrel, while LNG spot prices have doubled in weeks, triggering inflation spikes worldwide. Consumers face higher fuel costs, and businesses from Europe to Asia report supply chain disruptions, with shipping insurers refusing coverage for Gulf routes.

Gulf states, long wary of Iranian expansionism, have bolstered defences with US-supplied Patriot systems and multinational naval task forces. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have reported over 50 Iranian drone and missile strikes since late February, causing dozens of civilian casualties and blackouts across major cities.

Tehran maintains that its targets are exclusively US military bases hosting forces in the region, yet satellite imagery and eyewitness accounts reveal collateral damage to refineries in Qatar and residential towers in Kuwait. The IRGC's speedboats and submarines have also harassed commercial tankers, amplifying fears of a wider naval confrontation.

The UN resolution invokes Chapter-VII of the UN Charter, authorising potential sanctions or force if Iran fails to comply within 72 hours. However, enforcement remains uncertain, given veto powers held by Russia and China, who signalled reluctance to support coercive measures without broader accountability.

Diplomatic efforts are underway, with Qatar mediating backchannel talks and Oman hosting envoys from all sides. Yet, Iran's new interim leadership, headed by a hardline cleric, has rejected the resolution as 'Zionist diktat', vowing to maintain Hormuz control until reparations for Khamenei's killing are paid.

Global powers are divided. The US and Israel hail the resolution as a victory for collective security, while European nations urge de-escalation to safeguard energy supplies. India, a major oil importer from the Gulf, has quietly ramped up strategic reserves amid warnings of prolonged disruptions.

The conflict's roots trace back years, blending Iran's nuclear ambitions, proxy militias in Yemen and Iraq, and Gulf rivalries. The 28 February strikes, executed with F-35 stealth jets and bunker-busters, represented a pre-emptive blow that shattered the fragile deterrence balance.

Humanitarian concerns mount daily. Over 2,00,000 have been displaced in Gulf border areas, with aid convoys struggling amid sporadic shelling. The World Food Programme warns of famine risks if Hormuz remains choked, as food imports falter.

Markets remain jittery, with stock indices in London and New York down 5 per cent this week. Central banks, including the Bank of England, contemplate rate adjustments to counter imported inflation from the energy crisis.

As the 72-hour deadline looms, all eyes turn to Tehran. Compliance could ease tensions and unlock frozen Iranian assets for reconstruction; defiance risks secondary sanctions or allied airstrikes, potentially drawing in more actors and transforming a regional war into a global one.

AFP

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India-Brazil Leaders Discuss US Tariff Fallout Amid Push For Local Currency Trade

India and Brazil have held discussions on the recent US Supreme Court judgment concerning trade tariffs, as revealed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Secretary (East) P Kumaran shared these insights during a special briefing on Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's state visit to India.

Kumaran noted that President Lula and Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the latest developments in US trade policy, particularly the implications of the Supreme Court ruling.

Both leaders characterised the judgment as a "rather new development," emphasising the need for further study before drawing conclusions.

They agreed to adopt a wait-and-watch approach, monitoring the US administration's response and any subsequent steps.

Uncertainty persists over which specific tariffs will be affected, with questions remaining about those that will remain in place or be rescinded.

Kumaran highlighted a 10 per cent tariff announced by President Trump in a press conference the previous day, underscoring the rapid pace of these changes.

India's commerce ministry is conducting a detailed analysis, as the developments unfolded late the night before the discussions. The briefing clarified that no talks occurred on establishing a BRICS currency, aligning with President Lula's recent public statements on the matter.

Instead, both nations expressed interest in expanding trade settlements using local currencies to reduce reliance on third-party mediums.

There exists a robust consensus between India and Brazil on the urgency of United Nations reforms.

As fellow G4 members—alongside Germany and Japan—India and Brazil continue to coordinate efforts towards securing permanent seats on the UN Security Council.

President Lula addressed these themes during discussions on multilateralism, including reforms in the World Trade Organization and UN-related bodies.

The Brazilian leader arrived in India on 18 February, participating in the India AI Impact Summit on 19 and 20 February.

On 21 February, he received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by meetings with Prime Minister Modi and his delegation at Hyderabad House, accompanied by 11 ministers. This marks President Lula's fifth visit to India as Brazil's president, building on Prime Minister Modi's state visit to Brasilia on 8 July 2025.

ANI

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Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva And PM Modi Hold Bilateral Talks

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva arrived in New Delhi for a high-profile state visit, marking a pivotal moment in India-Brazil relations. The visit, hosted with full ceremonial honours, underscores the deepening partnership between the two nations.

On Saturday morning, a grand ceremonial welcome unfolded at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Lula received a Guard of Honour in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This traditional accolade set a tone of mutual respect and diplomatic warmth.

Shortly after, Prime Minister Modi hosted President Lula at Hyderabad House for an initial meeting. The venue, steeped in India's diplomatic history, provided an intimate setting for preliminary discussions ahead of formal bilateral talks.

The bilateral talks, held later in the national capital, focused on elevating ties across trade, investment, technology, and strategic sectors. Both leaders emphasised collaboration in the Global South, reflecting their shared vision for equitable global governance.

President Lula's itinerary extended to a meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. This engagement highlighted the robust diplomatic channels supporting high-level interactions between Brasília and New Delhi.

The visit builds directly on Prime Minister Modi's landmark trip to Brasilia in July 2025—the first by an Indian prime minister in over five decades. That journey laid groundwork for enhanced cooperation, now reciprocated with Lula's presence in India.

Arriving with Brazil's largest-ever delegation to India, President Lula brought more than 11 cabinet ministers and over 300 business leaders, including 50 CEOs. This unprecedented scale signals ambitious economic outreach.

The delegation's participation in a dedicated Business Forum promises concrete outcomes in trade and investment. Brazilian firms eye opportunities in India's burgeoning markets, particularly in infrastructure, defence, and renewable energy.

On Friday, President Lula inaugurated the first office of the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex) in New Delhi. In a post on X, he noted its role in promoting Brazilian products and services globally while attracting foreign investment to Brazil's strategic sectors.

Brazil's Ambassador to India, Kenneth da Nobrega, praised the Indian government's organisation of the AI Impact Summit 2026. He described it as a historic platform for the Global South, crediting Prime Minister Modi with integrating emerging economies into the AI revolution.

Ambassador da Nobrega highlighted the personal rapport between the two leaders. "They are not only colleagues but friends," he told ANI exclusively, adding that this chemistry is propelling bilateral relations to historic heights.

The envoy underscored the delegation's size as a testament to Brazil's commitment. With ministers and CEOs in tow, the visit aims to unlock deals in high-growth areas like agribusiness, aviation, and digital technologies.

India-Brazil trade has grown steadily, crossing key milestones in recent years. Lula's visit aligns with India's push for indigenous manufacturing and self-reliance, mirroring Brazil's focus on strategic autonomy.

Defence cooperation emerges as a potential bright spot, given both nations' investments in aerospace and maritime capabilities. Discussions may explore joint ventures in military hardware, building on existing frameworks.

In the geopolitical arena, the partnership countersbalance influences from traditional powers. As BRICS members, India and Brazil advocate for reformed global institutions, amplifying voices from the Global South.

Energy and sustainability feature prominently, with Brazil's bioethanol expertise complementing India's green hydrogen ambitions. Climate resilience forms a natural bridge for collaborative projects.

Cultural exchanges, though understated, reinforce people-to-people ties. Lula's visit revives momentum from past initiatives, fostering tourism and educational linkages.

Looking ahead, outcomes from the Business Forum could yield memorandums of understanding in priority sectors. Analysts anticipate announcements on trade targets, technology transfers, and investment pacts.

This engagement reaffirms India-Brazil relations as a cornerstone of South-South cooperation. With leaders like Modi and Lula at the helm, the partnership stands poised for exponential growth in the coming years.

ANI

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Brazil Prez Visit Yields 10 Outcomes Across Spectrum of Bilateral Ties: MEA

The visit of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to India has produced ten substantive outcomes spanning multiple facets of bilateral relations, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the engagement as brimming with results across all partnership dimensions.

These outcomes emphasise collaboration in rare earth minerals, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and beyond. They align closely with India's Viksit Bharat vision for advanced development.

First, cooperation in rare earth elements and critical minerals promises technology transfer, joint exploration, and research and development efforts. This initiative will attract investments and enable India to leverage Brazil's expertise in processing and recycling technologies.

Second, enhanced postal sector ties will facilitate greater exchanges of official delegates and experts. It promotes e-commerce growth, financial services, and the sharing of best practices.

Third, focus on MSMEs and crafts aims to promote Indian products globally. This furthers India's journey towards self-reliance and economic expansion.

Fourth, a joint declaration on digital partnership outlines implementation of the India Stack Framework. It strengthens collaboration in Digital Public Infrastructure, alongside high-performance computing, quantum technology, and blockchain.

Fifth, the Indian National Patent Office (INPI) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) will cooperate on the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL). Brazil gains access to TKDL, advancing recognition of Indian AYUSH and homeopathic pharmacopoeias.

Sixth, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization and Brazil's Health Regulatory Agency will deepen regulatory cooperation. This reinforces information exchange and pushes for recognition of Indian pharmacopoeia in Brazil.

Seventh, the Indian Institute of Mass Communication and Federal University of Minas Gerais will boost academic exchanges. Students and faculty gain mutual access to facilities and laboratories.

Eighth, the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute partners with the University of São Paulo. Joint projects in film and media will increase student and faculty exchanges.

Ninth, Brazil has extended business visas for Indian passport holders to ten years. This eases commerce for Indians in Brazil and bolsters economic ties.

Tenth, mining cooperation targets the steel supply chain. It secures essential mineral resources, supporting India's industrial ambitions under Viksit Bharat.

Three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged: on Digital Partnership for the Future, Rare Earth and Critical Minerals, and Mining in the Steel Supply Chain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Lula addressed a joint press conference in New Delhi. Lula expressed optimism, stating Brazil views India with hopeful eyes and that joint efforts will fortify bilateral relations and the Global South against superpower rivalries.

Lula highlighted the "superlative" nature of India-Brazil meetings, noting both as the largest Global South democracies. He called India a digital superpower and Brazil a renewable energy leader, both mega-diverse cultural hubs defending multilateralism and peace.

This marked Lula's sixth visit to India, which he described as a source of happiness. PM Modi welcomed him and his delegation, including ministers and business leaders, covering the full spectrum of friendship.

Modi noted Lula's attendance at the AI Summit injected fresh energy into the strategic partnership. In a post on X, he praised Lula's visionary leadership.

Talks prioritised elevating bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in five years. Commitments span technology, innovation, Digital Public Infrastructure, AI, semiconductors, energy, agriculture, critical minerals, education, defence, and multilateral issues.

People-to-people linkages also featured prominently. Lula recounted his warm reception by PM Modi and President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Modi underscored how India-Brazil unity amplifies the Global South's voice globally. He called for reforms in international institutions to tackle modern challenges, reaffirming joint resolve.

These outcomes signal a maturing partnership, blending economic pragmatism with strategic alignment. For India, they offer mineral security and tech synergies vital to defence manufacturing and aerospace ambitions. Brazil gains from India's digital prowess amid its resource-rich profile.

The visit reinforces G20 synergies, with both nations advocating multipolarity. Defence ties, though not headlined, lurk beneath as critical minerals feed into military hardware like missiles and UAVs—key to India's indigenous push via HAL, BEL, and DRDO partners.

ANI

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