ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Brics as a tool for leverage, not a binding bloc on Iran war

opinion-review · 2026-05-12

An opinion article suggests that the Brics coalition does not require a cohesive position on the Iran conflict to maintain its significance. The writer argues that Brics should be seen as a platform for its members to increase their influence and broaden their choices, rather than as a rigid organization that necessitates policy uniformity. As the summit chair, India is confronted with the task of balancing its relationship with Israel, its dedication to the Global South, the safety of its diaspora in the Middle East, strained relations with the US during Trump’s presidency, and domestic backlash regarding its silence on US-Israel actions. While the forthcoming Brics foreign ministerial meetings in New Delhi may not produce substantial progress on the war, this does not diminish the group's effectiveness. The piece also highlights a co-edited work by Heiwai Tang and the author, advocating for selective cooperation as beneficial.

Key facts

  • Brics does not need a unified voice on the Iran war to have a future.
  • The grouping is a tool for leverage enhancement and optionality maximization.
  • India chairs the Brics summit and seeks to balance ties with Israel and the Global South.
  • India faces challenges from strained US relations under the second Trump administration.
  • Domestic opposition criticizes India's uncritical silence on US-Israel attacks.
  • Brics foreign ministerial meetings in New Delhi are unlikely to yield breakthroughs on the war.
  • The article is co-authored with Heiwai Tang.
  • Selective cooperation within Brics can be fruitful for members.

Entities

Institutions

  • Brics
  • South China Morning Post

Locations

  • India
  • New Delhi
  • Middle East
  • United States
  • Iran

Sources