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BRICS Draws A Red Line On Sanctions, Tariffs And Gaza

Anirudh Jain - Kolkata Bureau Published May 15, 2026, 07:27 AM Updated Sep 18, 2026, 05:14 AM

BRICS foreign ministers have issued a chair’s statement voicing serious concern over unilateral tariffs, non tariff barriers and sanctions they say violate WTO norms and bypass the UN Security Council. They simultaneously demanded navigational safety in key waterways and called for an immediate, permanent and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, while acknowledging internal differences over the wider Middle East picture.

The statement reflects how BRICS is sharpening its collective stance on trade protectionism and unilateral coercive measures, echoing long running complaints from emerging markets about weaponisation of tariffs and financial channels. At the same time, the grouping is trying to speak in one voice on conflict flashpoints such as Gaza and the Red Sea, even as nuances remain among members.

Pushback On Unilateral Economic Measures

BRICS ministers condemned unilateral coercive measures and sanctions not authorised by the UN Security Council, warning that such steps undermine global economic stability and multilateral rules. They also flagged serious concerns about unilateral tariff and non tariff measures they see as inconsistent with WTO rules, reinforcing BRICS’ positioning as a champion of a more equitable trading order.

Security Concerns From Red Sea To Gaza

On security, the statement stressed the importance of navigational rights and freedoms in the Red Sea and the Bab al Mandab Strait, reflecting worries over disruptions to global shipping and energy flows. The ministers also called for an immediate, permanent and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, and urged both the maintenance of any ceasefire achieved and full, unhindered humanitarian access to the enclave.

Unity, But Not Uniformity, On The Middle East

Interestingly, the communique acknowledged that there were differing views among some BRICS members regarding aspects of the Middle East situation. Even so, the grouping sought to underline common ground on the need for de escalation, humanitarian relief and respect for international law, while leaving space for national positions to coexist within the bloc.