The recent conflict between Iran and Israel has sent shockwaves throughout the international community, and BRICS nations have not been immune to its impact. While each member has its own unique perspective, the collective response reflects the delicate balance of interests within the alliance.
Iran’s confrontation with Israel has the potential to both unite and divide BRICS. On one hand, countries like Russia and China have historically maintained close ties with Iran, viewing it as a strategic partner in the region. Both nations have vested interests in maintaining stability in the Middle East to safeguard their economic and geopolitical interests, including energy security and regional influence. Therefore, they might be inclined to support Iran or at least advocate for diplomatic resolutions to the conflict.
On the other hand, India and Brazil may adopt a more cautious approach, given their respective relationships with both Iran and Israel. India, in particular, has deep economic and energy ties with Iran but also maintains strong diplomatic relations with Israel. Similarly, Brazil seeks to balance its diplomatic engagements in the Middle East while safeguarding its commercial interests. These countries may prioritise stability and seek to mitigate tensions between Iran and Israel to avoid disruptions to their own interests.
South Africa, as a member of BRICS, plays a pivotal role in shaping its response to the Iran-Israel conflict. Historically, South Africa has been critical of Israel’s policies towards Palestine and has expressed solidarity with the Palestinian cause. However, its stance on Iran is more nuanced, balancing its support for the Iran nuclear deal with broader considerations of regional stability. Therefore, South Africa’s response to the conflict is likely to be influenced by these competing interests, advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolutions while condemning any actions that escalate tensions further.
The impact of the Iran-Israel conflict on BRICS goes beyond diplomatic statements and political posturing. Economic factors, particularly energy markets, are also at play. Any escalation in the conflict could disrupt oil supplies and destabilise global energy markets, affecting the economies of BRICS nations, which are major energy consumers and producers. Additionally, increased geopolitical tensions could undermine investor confidence and hinder efforts to promote trade and investment within the bloc.
In light of these challenges, BRICS nations may seek to leverage their collective influence to de-escalate the situation and promote dialogue between Iran and Israel. Multilateral forums such as the BRICS summit provide opportunities for member states to coordinate their responses and explore avenues for conflict resolution. Moreover, BRICS’s growing role in global governance offers a platform for the alliance to contribute to efforts aimed at addressing the root causes of conflicts in the Middle East, including regional rivalries and geopolitical competition.
Ultimately, the Iran-Israel conflict poses both challenges and opportunities for BRICS. While it tests the cohesion of the group and highlights the divergent interests of its members, it also underscores the importance of multilateralism and diplomatic engagement in addressing complex geopolitical issues. As BRICS continues to assert itself on the global stage, its response to the Iran-Israel conflict will shape not only its relations with the Middle East but also its role in shaping the future of international politics.
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