NEW DELHI – Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi launched a scathing critique of the United States on May 14, 2026, during the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi. Araghchi accused Washington of engaging in 'bullying' tactics and cautioned that 'empires in decline' often resort to increased aggression as their global influence wanes.
Addressing representatives from the expanded BRICS bloc, Araghchi framed Iran’s ongoing tensions with the US as a shared struggle for many nations resisting Western pressure. He asserted that the 'resistance against US bullying is not an unfamiliar battle' for most countries present, drawing a parallel to a 'wounded animal' that desperately claws and roars.
Call for BRICS Unity Against Coercion
Araghchi urged BRICS member states to strengthen their coordination against what he termed 'coercive international practices'. He highlighted that escalating geopolitical tensions and military confrontations ultimately create a 'lose-lose proposition' for all involved, including the aggressors.
The Iranian minister’s remarks come amidst heightened instability across West Asia, fueled by widening conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. He emphasized that Iran, while open to diplomacy, would utilize 'all available means' to defend itself against what he described as 'illegal expansionism and warmongering'.
Allegations Against UAE and Secret Meetings
In a significant accusation against a Gulf Arab state, Araghchi alleged that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been 'directly involved' in military operations targeting Iran. Speaking on the sidelines of the summit, he claimed the UAE acted as an 'active partner in this aggression' and may have 'even acted directly against us', according to Iran’s Mehr News Agency.
Araghchi also referenced unconfirmed reports of a 'secret' meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in the UAE, a visit that Abu Dhabi has officially denied. These allegations are expected to further strain delicate regional diplomatic efforts.
Condemnation of US and Israel Sought
The Iranian Foreign Minister called upon BRICS member states and the broader international community to explicitly condemn actions by the US and Israel, which he characterized as violations of international law. The conflict, reportedly initiated on February 28, has triggered widespread geopolitical uncertainty and intensified concerns regarding global energy markets and oil supplies.
India is hosting the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting from May 14-15 as part of its chairmanship for 2026. The BRICS bloc, which initially comprised Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded in 2011 to include South Africa, and more recently welcomed Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates as new members.