UAE and Iran discuss easing tensions at BRICS summit - Euronews.com

**UAE and Iran Seek to Defuse Regional Friction at BRICS Summit**

Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince and Iran’s senior diplomatic delegation met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Johannesburg to discuss a “turn‑the‑page” approach to their long‑standing bilateral disputes. The talks, described by Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Hossein Pezeshkian as “good conversation,” focused on practical steps to reduce naval incidents in the Persian Gulf and to revive trade corridors that have stalled since 2016. Both sides signaled a willingness to move beyond past grievances, with the UAE emphasizing its “bonhomie” with Tehran and Iran echoing the sentiment of a new chapter in relations.

The diplomatic overture came despite a dismissive stance from the United States, where President Donald Trump, when asked about the Gulf‑Iran dialogue, remarked “I don’t care.” The comment underscored a broader shift in U.S. engagement with the region, leaving the onus on regional actors to manage security and economic cooperation. In parallel, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Kashmiri clerics in Delhi, urging restraint and Muslim unity—a move that reflects Tehran’s attempt to broaden its diplomatic outreach beyond the Gulf.

Analysts view the BRICS‑facilitated dialogue as a potential catalyst for de‑escalation, yet caution that entrenched mistrust and external pressures remain. If sustained, the easing of tensions could unlock stalled projects such as the Abu Dhabi‑Bandar Abbas maritime link and ease the strategic competition that has plagued the Gulf for years. However, the durability of any agreement will hinge on concrete confidence‑building measures and the ability of both nations to navigate competing interests from global powers.