BRICS nations slam Trump tariffs, condemn strikes on Iran

Source: CNA | Original Published At: 2025-07-07 00:36:44 UTC

Key Points

• BRICS condemns US unilateral tariffs as threat to global economy
• Condemnation of US-Israeli military strikes on Iran
• Highlighting BRICS' collective economic weight (40% global GDP)
• Avoidance of direct criticism against Trump despite targeting policies

RIO DE JANEIRO: BRICS leaders at a summit on Sunday (Jul 6) took aim at US President Donald Trump’s “indiscriminate” import tariffs and recent Israeli-US strikes on Iran.

The 11 emerging nations, including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, represent about half the world’s population and 40 per cent of global economic output.

The bloc is divided about much, but found common cause when it comes to the mercurial US leader and his stop-start tariff wars – even if they avoided naming him directly.

Voicing “serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff” measures, BRICS members said the tariffs risked hurting the global economy, according to a summit joint statement.

They also offered symbolic backing to fellow member Iran, condemning a series of military strikes on nuclear and other targets carried out by Israel and the United States.

In April, Trump threatened allies and rivals alike with a slew of punitive duties, before offering a months-long reprieve in the face of a fierce market sell-off.

Trump has now warned he will impose unilateral levies on partners unless they reach “deals” by Aug 1.

In an apparent concession to US allies such as Brazil, India and Saudi Arabia, the summit declaration did not criticise the United States or its president by name at any point.