BRICS Parliamentary Forum expresses “deep concern” over hostilities in West Asia
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla holds talks with European Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee (AFET) Chairman David McAllister on the sidelines of the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum October 27, 2026 | Photo credit: ANI
BRICS parliamentarians have expressed “deep concern” over escalating tensions and hostilities in West Asia, criticizing the “unilateral coercive measures” and “unilateral economic sanctions” imposed in the region as contrary to international law.
The joint statement issued after talks led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at the conclusion of the two-day 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum on Tuesday also reiterated the need for a “two-state” solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“We express deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in the Middle East/West Asia and, citing our respective national positions, call for maximum restraint and avoidance of actions that could further exacerbate the situation,” the joint statement said.
“Two-State Solution”
The meeting in Delhi earlier attracted attention when the head of Iran’s parliamentary delegation, Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf, canceled his visit to India in the wake of growing hostilities between Saudi Arabia and Houthi forces.
Despite the absence of Mr. Ghalibaf, who has been a key partner in direct and indirect negotiations during the ongoing conflict, the forum provided an opportunity for an exchange of views between stakeholders in West Asia. Several key politicians from the region attended, including Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the UAE Defense, Interior and Foreign Affairs Committee.
Ties between the United Arab Emirates and Iran have soured sharply since Iran attacked the Gulf nation as part of its retaliation strategy against the US-led attacks that began on February 28. Mr. Al Nuaimi met a small group of journalists on the sidelines of the forum and spoke strongly in favor of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian crisis without harming Israeli interests. “About 160 countries recognize Israel and it is a reality in the region. However, the tragic situation has shown that a Palestinian state is needed. With this in mind, we must restart negotiations on a two-state solution,” Al Nuaimi said.
The joint statement also addressed the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. “We reaffirm our unwavering support for a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on a two-state solution where both states live side by side, in peace and security, in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions, promoting the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, freedom and an independent, sovereign state.”
Undermining international law
The BRICS Parliamentary Forum indirectly addressed the US-Israeli attack on Iran and the BRICS stance against attacks on member countries: “We call for the removal of such illegal measures that undermine international law and the principles and purposes of the UN Charter,” the joint statement said.
It condemned acts of terrorism as “criminal and unjustified” and condemned the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam “in the strongest terms”. He adds: “We call for the speedy finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the framework of the United Nations. We call for joint action against all terrorists and terrorist entities designated by the United Nations.”
The joint statement added that inter-parliamentary exchanges between BRICS member countries provide a communication channel and build trust among member states. “Support the peaceful resolution of international disputes,” the statement said.
Published – 27 Oct 2026 21:46 IST