BRICS Nations Rebuke US, Israel; Sidestep Ukraine War

Leaders from the BRICS economic bloc have strongly condemned military actions by the United States and Israel in Iran, calling them violations of international law. However, the group’s recent declaration notably avoided direct criticism of Russia’s ongoing involvement in the Ukraine conflict, sparking debate over its priorities.

BRICS Decries Actions Against Iran

The BRICS nations—now expanded to include ten members—released a joint statement in Rio de Janeiro asserting that the attacks on Iran constituted a “blatant breach of international law.” The bloc voiced solidarity with Palestinians, reiterating support for establishing a Palestinian state.

The conflict began in mid-June when Israel initiated airstrikes targeting Iranian military, nuclear, and civilian sites. According to Iranian officials, these attacks resulted in nearly a thousand deaths and several thousand injuries. While Iran retaliated, a U.S.-brokered ceasefire eventually took hold. The BRICS statement emphasized the need to protect civilians and the environment during armed conflicts, highlighting the importance of nuclear safeguards.

Trump Responds with Tariff Threat

Former U.S. President Donald Trump quickly responded to the BRICS declaration via his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump warned that any country aligning with “anti-American policies” would face additional tariffs. 

Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy.

— Donald Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 7, 2025

He specifically threatened to impose an additional 10% tariff on countries perceived as supporting policies against the U.S.

BRICS Expansion and Leadership at Rio Summit

Originally founded in 2009 with Brazil, Russia, India, and China, the BRICS group has expanded to include South Africa, Indonesia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. This year’s Rio summit was hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. High-level representation was present, though Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Masoud Pezeshkian did not attend.

Gaza Conflict and Humanitarian Concerns

BRICS addressed the ongoing Gaza conflict, denouncing the use of starvation as a weapon and opposing the obstruction of humanitarian aid. The bloc supported UNRWA, the UN aid agency for Palestinian refugees, amidst criticisms and restrictions imposed by Israel. According to the World Food Programme, nearly 1.1 million people in Gaza are facing catastrophic levels of hunger (WFP July 2024).

The group reaffirmed its commitment to a two-state solution, with Gaza and the West Bank forming a future Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Criticism of Unilateral Sanctions and Trade Policies

The declaration also condemned unilateral sanctions, particularly those imposed by the U.S. on member nations like Iran and Russia, stating that such measures violate international law and infringe on human rights.

Silence on Ukraine War

While the BRICS statement called for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, it notably omitted any direct condemnation of Russia’s actions. Instead, the group criticized Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory, citing civilian casualties.