BRICS expresses concern at Middle East conflict, Trump threatens 10 pc tariff on BRICS countries

BRICS countries have expressed deep concern at continued conflicts and instability in the Middle East and the situation in "Occupied Palestinian Territory" with continuous Israeli attacks against Gaza even as US President Donald Trump threatened an additional 10 percent tariff on any country aligning themselves with "the Anti-American policies of BRICS".

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In a Joint Declaration adopted after the BRICS Summit at Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, BRICS countries reaffirmed that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could only be achieved by peaceful means depending on fulfilment of legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to self-determination and return.

They called for adherence to international laws, including the International Humanitarian Laws and condemned attempts to politicize or militarize humanitarian assistance.

Reacting to the references to Middle East in the BRICS Joint Declaration, President Trump said in his post on Truth Social that “Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10 percent Tariff...There will be no exceptions to this policy."

China was quick to respond to President Trump's threat and described it as a "tool of political coercion.” A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said such measures are unproductive and serve no constructive purpose.”

BRICS is dedicated to cooperation and inclusive global development, rejecting confrontation and geopolitical rivalry, the spokesman said.