Gulf War: India Balances BRICS, Gulf Interests Amid US-Israeli Conflict with Iran

The Gulf region remains volatile as the conflict between the US/Israel and Iran continues. India is under pressure to safeguard the interests of its large expatriate population in the Gulf while also managing its relationships within the BRICS economic alliance and with the United States. The situation presents a significant foreign policy challenge for India, requiring careful diplomacy and strategic decision-making. ## Latest Update The conflict has highlighted differences between Iran and the United Arab Emirates, who are on opposing sides of the conflict initiated by the US and Israel on February 28th. This adds another layer of complexity to India's diplomatic balancing act. ## Timeline * **2026-03-25:** PM Modi and President Pezeshkian discuss the conflict, revealing divergences. Iran asserts its right to self-defense against US-Israeli aggression, citing Israeli attacks on its nuclear facilities. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh flags the urgency of the situation. * **2026-02-28:** US and Israel launch war. * **2026-05-13:** Reports emerge that the conflict is creating divisions within BRICS, specifically between Iran and the UAE. ## What to Watch * Escalation of the conflict, potentially drawing in other regional actors. * Shifting alliances and realignments within BRICS due to the conflict. * India's diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation and protect its interests.