Iranian leader's BRICS outreach underscores India ties and pressures Pakistan

At the recent BRICS summit, Iranian President Pezeshkian held a series of high-profile meetings that highlighted Tehran's growing diplomatic outreach. He spent three days alongside Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose visible camaraderie suggested New Delhi's intent to maintain a balanced approach toward regional rivals. Pezeshkian also met several Indian religious leaders, reinforcing the cultural dimension of the India-Iran relationship.

Following their talks, Modi posted on X that the two leaders discussed deepening friendship and a mutually beneficial long-term strategy, and Pezeshkian extended an invitation for Modi to visit Tehran. In a parallel track, Pezeshkian sat down with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a dialogue that could help reduce Gulf frictions. Iran's backing of India on the Jammu and Kashmir issue at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation delivered a pointed message to Pakistan, which is positioning itself as a mediator between the United States and Tehran. The interactions underscore Iran's potential as an energy supplier and strategic counterweight to Pakistan, while also opening routes toward Afghanistan, Central Asia, and Russia.