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In a strong show of unity and defiance, BRICS nations on Sunday delivered a pointed rebuke of recent military strikes on Iran and the increasing use of unilateral trade tariffs—particularly by the United States. Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, the bloc unveiled a joint communique dubbed the Rio de Janeiro Declaration, laying out their shared concerns over global trade disruptions, military escalations, and terrorism.

The expanded BRICS alliance, now comprising 11 member nations including newcomers Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, and the UAE, issued a firm warning about the destabilizing impact of rising protectionism.

“The proliferation of trade-restrictive actions, whether in the form of indiscriminate rising of tariffs and nontariff measures… threatens to further reduce global trade, disrupt global supply chains, and introduce uncertainty into international economic and trade activities,” the declaration stated.

The group voiced serious concerns over unilateral trade actions that run counter to the principles of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Reaffirming their stance, the leaders threw their weight behind a rules-based, open, and inclusive multilateral trading system, emphasizing the need for special and differential treatment for developing economies within the WTO framework.

Firm Words on Iran Strikes

On the security front, the bloc took an unequivocal stand against the military strikes on Iran that began on June 13. Calling the attacks a “clear violation” of international law and the UN Charter, BRICS expressed grave concern over the targeting of civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities operating under the watch of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

“We condemn the military strikes against the Islamic Republic of Iran… and express serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities,” the statement read.

Condemnation of Terrorism in J&K Attack

The declaration also addressed terrorism in no uncertain terms, condemning the deadly April 22 attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combat terrorism “in all its forms and manifestations,” highlighting the dangers posed by cross-border terror networks, funding channels, and safe havens.

“We urge to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering terrorism,” the declaration noted.

Backing long-pending international efforts, the bloc called for the adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and reiterated that no justification can excuse acts of terror, regardless of their motivation.

Concerns Over Crypto and Financial Crimes

In a broader context of global security, the BRICS nations flagged growing alarm over illicit financial flows, money laundering, and terrorism financing. The statement also warned against the use of new technologies and digital currencies—such as cryptocurrencies—by extremist groups to bypass international safeguards and fund criminal activities.