Iran's President Peseshkian Reports UAE Reconciliation Amid BRICS Summit

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, attending the BRICS summit in India, announced a "reconciliation" with the United Arab Emirates following a meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed al-Nahyan. The UAE and Egypt are the only Arab nations within the expanded BRICS bloc, which is seen as a foundation for a potential Russia-Iran-China geopolitical axis. The summit, held in India's capital, also included "sympathizers" from Belarus, Kazakhstan, and other nations.

President Raisi described his conversation with Sheikh Khaled as a "constructive dialogue" aimed at "leaving the past behind" and building future cooperation. However, the UAE's official response was more reserved. Political advisor Anwar Gargash stated the meeting was part of the UAE's approach of "deterrence and diplomacy," emphasizing that diplomacy requires a balance of power for regional security. Gargash also noted Raisi's "balanced and rational position" during the current crisis, suggesting the UAE's issues were with Iran's broader policies, not necessarily Raisi himself.

Raisi also highlighted positive interactions with Indian officials, including President Droupadi Murmu, who expressed readiness to expand cooperation. Raisi noted a "sense of mutual closeness" rooted in ancient history between the two nations, describing the reception of the Iranian delegation as "excellent and cordial."

The BRICS summit concluded with a 140-point resolution. Six points condemned Israeli policies in Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank, using standard language about civilian casualties and occupation, without naming Hezbollah or Hamas. The resolution also criticized US foreign policy but contained no criticism of Iran's domestic or international actions, despite its alleged support for terrorism and regional aggression.