During the ongoing BRICS summit in Russia, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in a display of solidarity between their nations, emphasizing the Chinese Communist Party’s commitment to fostering “friendly cooperation” with Iran. Pezeshkian, representing Iran as one of the new members of the BRICS coalition, joined other nations such as the UAE, Ethiopia, and Egypt. This year’s summit, highlighting its prominence, included participation from 33 nations, marking it as a significant diplomatic event in Russia’s modern history. The BRICS bloc, originally composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is expanding its membership as countries like Saudi Arabia and Argentina have been invited for future inclusion.
The summit’s proceedings encapsulated critical geopolitical discussions, particularly reflecting Iran’s influence. A declaration released by participants addressed various global issues, including a critique of human rights sanctions on rogue states and a call for Israel to cease its counterterrorism operations in Gaza. This declaration notably omitted any condemnation of the recent terrorist attack organized by Hamas, which had been enabled by Iranian support. Xi affirmed China’s continued backing of Iran’s territorial sovereignty and security amidst the growing tensions with Israel, which the Iranian regime has exacerbated through military involvement.
Xi expressed a desire for enhanced economic and cultural ties, as well as strong geopolitical cooperation with Iran, reiterating China’s commitment to non-interference in national affairs. He delicately navigated the recent Israel-Hamas conflict, voicing concern without placing blame on Tehran for its role in fueling regional instability. This diplomatic maneuver underscores China’s nuanced approach in Middle Eastern politics, where it positions itself as a benefactor to Iran while simultaneously advocating for peace. Pezeshkian, endorsing this sentiment, called for a united front against perceived Western hegemony, particularly that of the United States.
At the summit, Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s resolve to oppose Western sanctions and the perceived threats they pose to economic sovereignty. His comments reflect a broader desire among BRICS nations to establish cooperative frameworks that reject unilateralism in global governance. The Iranian president viewed the summit as an opportunity to reshape geopolitical dynamics, emphasizing a multipolar world that challenges the existing U.S.-dominated order. This theme resonated throughout the summit discussions, as participants expressed a shared vision of collective growth and resistance against Western intervention.
The language throughout the summit documents, particularly the Kazan declaration, illustrated a strong anti-Israel stance, despite the participation of India and the UAE, both of which are more moderate in their positions regarding Israel. The declaration expressed grave concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Palestine and condemned Israeli military actions, reinforcing a narrative that aligns with Iran’s historical opposition to Israel. The ongoing escalation in Gaza, largely instigated by Hamas, received the BRICS coalition’s sympathetic attention, positioning Iran and its allies in opposition to U.S. foreign policy in the region.
China’s steadfast support of Iran amid the Israel conflict reflected a strategic alignment that further complicates the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. The Chinese government condemned Israeli military actions that targeted Iranian proxy groups and emphasized the need for regional stability through diplomacy. By championing Iran’s causes, including its military operations against Israel, China is not only solidifying its partnership with Tehran but also expanding its influence in a region traditionally dominated by Western powers. This collaboration signals a tactical shift in international alliances as BRICS nations, particularly China and Iran, seek to promote a shared agenda that challenges existing global power structures.
