Iran pushes BRICS unity in 4th Araghchi-Jaishankar call since War

New Delhi: Foreign ministers of India and Iran held their fourth conversation since the West Asia conflict began a fortnight ago, with Tehran seeking Brics solidarity on the escalating crisis. It was also the first discussion between the two ministers, following soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday night.

India holds the current Brics Presidency but a joint statement on the crisis is a delicate task as three of its members-Iran, UAE, and Saudi Arabia-are currently involved in the conflict.

The issue was also discussed when India's foreign minister S Jaishankar held a phone conversation with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday. It is understood that all Brics member states are engaged in initial conversations on a Brics formulation that safeguards the interest of all member states.


While a SCO statement condemning military strikes against Iran was easier, Brics formulation needs a nuanced approach. The Brics Summit is slated to be held in India later this year.

According to an Iranian readout on the phone call, Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi briefed Jaishankar on the latest situation following what Tehran described as US and Israeli attacks and their impact on regional and global stability. He also stressed Iran's determination to exercise what it termed as its "legitimate right of self-defence".

Araghchi also called on international and regional organisations to condemn "military aggression against the country" and highlighted the "importance of Brics in supporting global stability".

Jaishankar also confirmed the conversation, which happened Thursday night. "Had another conversation with Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi yesterday night. Discussed bilateral matters as also Brics related issues," Jaishankar said.

Modi-Pezeshkian Speak Amid War; Iran hails india's position

On Thursday night, Modi and Pezeshkian held their maiden conversation since the start of the war that has created a major crisis, impacting supplies of natural oil and natural gas, and other essential goods through the vital Strait of Hormuz.

India is a friend of Iran, Modi told Pezeshkian during the call, according to Iran's readout of the talks. Pezeshkian appreciated India's balanced and constructive positions in the international arena and its efforts to reduce tensions.

Further Pezeshkian emphasised that Iran didn't initiate the war and has no desire to continue it.

Modi on his part had "expressed deep concern" over the escalating situation in the Middle East in a telephonic conversation with Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian.