India urges BRICS unity as Middle East conflict tests expanded bloc

India urged BRICS countries to coordinate on conflict resolution, maritime security, sanctions, terrorism, climate finance, and UN reform, emphasizing the importance of maritime flows through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. The meeting is being closely watched due to the expanded BRICS bloc, which includes countries with differing alignments, such as Iran and the UAE, amid the Middle East conflict and global trade/energy tensions. Jaishankar stressed the need for effective responses beyond discussion, highlighting the challenges facing emerging markets.