Iran President urges BRICS to play independent role in West Asia conflict
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for BRICS to play an independent role in resolving the West Asia conflict, emphasizing the need for the US and Israel to halt military actions. PM Modi, without explicitly mentioning BRICS, condemned attacks on critical infrastructure and stressed maritime security.
Key Highlights
- Iran's President Pezeshkian urged BRICS to act independently in West Asia conflict.
- Pezeshkian called for US and Israel to immediately halt military aggression against Iran.
- PM Modi condemned attacks on critical infrastructure and emphasized maritime security.
- India currently holds the rotating presidency of the BRICS bloc.
- Pezeshkian proposed a regional security framework without foreign interference.
- This was the second call between Modi and Pezeshkian amid escalating West Asia tensions.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a significant telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, March 21, 2026, where he strongly advocated for the BRICS bloc to assume an 'independent role' in de-escalating the ongoing conflict in West Asia. This marked their second direct interaction since the recent escalation of hostilities in the region, which began around February 28, 2026.
During the call, President Pezeshkian conveyed to Prime Minister Modi that any viable resolution to the protracted conflict hinges critically on the immediate cessation of military actions by the United States and Israel. He characterized the situation as 'continued military aggression' against Iran by the US and Israel, asserting that Iran did not initiate the conflict. Furthermore, Pezeshkian highlighted alleged attacks, including one on a school in Minab attributed to the US from military bases in neighboring countries, resulting in numerous casualties. He also reiterated Iran's consistent rejection of nuclear weapons, citing directives from the late Supreme Leader, countering claims that US military actions were aimed at preventing Iran's nuclear proliferation.
A central point of President Pezeshkian's message was his call for BRICS to play a proactive and 'independent role in halting aggression against Iran and in safeguarding regional and global stability.' He specifically referenced India's current rotating presidency of the BRICS grouping, urging New Delhi to leverage this position. Additionally, Pezeshkian proposed the establishment of a regional security framework, comprising countries from West Asia, with the explicit aim of ensuring peace and stability 'without foreign interference.'
Prime Minister Modi, in his subsequent public statements regarding the conversation, did not explicitly mention discussions pertaining to BRICS. However, his focus was on condemning 'attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.' He also strongly emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that vital shipping routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, remain open and secure. These remarks underscore India's concerns about the broader economic and trade implications of the West Asian conflict.
The broader context reveals that Iran officially became a member of BRICS in 2024. India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had also recently discussed BRICS-related matters with his Iranian counterpart, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, indicating ongoing engagement between the two nations on the bloc's role.
The situation highlights the intricate diplomatic challenges facing India as the current BRICS chair. While Iran, as a new member, is pressing for the bloc to take a firm stance against perceived aggressions, India is navigating a delicate balance. Reports suggest that initial attempts within BRICS to issue a statement condemning US and Israeli actions faced internal divisions, particularly with objections from countries like the UAE, which views Iran as an aggressor in certain contexts. India has reportedly sought to maintain a more neutral position, focusing on facilitating dialogue and achieving consensus rather than outright taking sides, a strategy consistent with its long-standing foreign policy of strategic autonomy. This diplomatic tightrope walk reflects India's efforts to balance its relationships with traditional partners like Iran and newer strategic partners and Western allies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main topic of discussion between Iranian President Pezeshkian and PM Modi?
The primary discussion revolved around the escalating conflict in West Asia, with President Pezeshkian urging BRICS, under India's presidency, to play an independent role in halting what he described as US-Israeli aggression against Iran.
What was Prime Minister Modi's stance during the call?
PM Modi condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region and emphasized the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring secure shipping lanes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. He did not explicitly mention BRICS in his public statement.
Why is Iran particularly keen on BRICS intervention?
Iran, a BRICS member since 2024, sees the bloc as a platform for emerging economies to assert an independent stance in global geopolitics and to counter what it perceives as unilateral aggression from the US and Israel.
What is India's role and challenge as the current BRICS chair?
As the current BRICS chair, India faces the challenge of balancing its diplomatic ties with Iran and Western nations. While urged to take a firm stance, India is reportedly aiming for a neutral position, facilitating dialogue and seeking consensus among BRICS members.
What implications does this call have for regional and global stability?
The call highlights ongoing tensions in West Asia with significant implications for global energy markets, supply chains, and international maritime security. It also tests the cohesion and diplomatic influence of the expanded BRICS bloc in addressing major geopolitical conflicts.
