Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has publicly backed India for a major peace role in West Asia, appearing to sideline Pakistan during the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting in New Delhi. Lavrov acknowledged that Pakistan was helping facilitate urgent dialogue between the US and Iran, but stressed that if a “long-term mediator” was needed, “this role could be played by India” because of Delhi’s “vast diplomatic experience.” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also backed a larger Indian role, saying Tehran would welcome any “constructive role” by India in resolving the West Asia crisis.

In the ongoing BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi delivered a fiery speech, launching a blistering attack on the US, Israel and even the UAE. Tehran accused Washington and Tel Aviv of “illegal aggression” and claimed the West used “false nuclear excuses” to justify conflict against Iran. In a major escalation, Iran also alleged that the UAE played a secret role during the conflict and refused to condemn strikes on Tehran. Abu Dhabi has strongly denied the allegations.