An intergovernmental bloc of rising powers
BRICS foreign ministers conference in New Delhi is ongoing as members push for reform of global governance while clashing over Israel-Gaza war, Iran-UAE tensions, and regional security. India chairs the group for 2026; no joint closing statement has emerged amid conflicting positions.
UK maritime authorities have reported that an unidentified vessel has been seized by unauthorized personnel near Fujairah, northeast of the Strait of Hormuz. The seizure coincides with ongoing regional tensions as Iran accuses regional actors of aggression and Brics members discuss responses. No crew details or responsibility have been established, while separate incidents involve an Indian livestock carrier sunk off Oman and ongoing diplomatic exchanges surrounding the strait.
The White House has stated that Trump and Xi have held a productive meeting, agreeing that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to ensure the free flow of energy. Xi has reportedly shown interest in increasing U.S. oil imports to reduce dependency on the strait, though Beijing's readout does not confirm this. Iran’s foreign minister has accused the UAE of direct involvement in military actions against Iran during a BRICS meeting, while Tehran calls for the UAE to reconsider its policy toward Iran.
BRICS foreign ministers have convened in New Delhi amid persistent divisions over the U.S.-Israel conflict in the Middle East. India’s chairmanship has highlighted calls for reform of global governance while specific language on Gaza and regional security has faced reservations from some members. Iran has urged condemnation of Western actions, while the UAE and Saudi Arabia are cited as key divisive players.
The UAE has reaffirmed its sovereign-rights to respond to threats after Iran-linked strikes and at BRICS discussions in New Delhi. Officials say around 3,000 drone and missile attacks have targeted civilian sites since the Feb. 28 start of the US-Israel war on Iran, and the UAE is coordinating with partners while asserting it will deter aggression.
Protests ahead of the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains are intensifying as thousands gather in Geneva and Evian. Authorities have deployed thousands of police and tightened security to prevent violence amid warnings about global inequality and climate policy.