New Delhi: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and the five other BRICS members have expressed grave concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East and West Asia, urging all sides to avoid actions that could further aggravate the situation.

The appeal was made in the New Delhi Declaration, adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit being held in the Indian capital on September 12 and 13.

“We express deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in Middle East/West Asia,” the declaration stated, calling on the parties involved to exercise “maximum restraint” and avoid further escalation.

The grouping stressed the importance of resolving international disputes through dialogue, consultation and diplomacy, amid mounting concern over the human and economic consequences of the conflict in the region.

BRICS also strongly opposed the forced displacement of Palestinians from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, whether temporarily or permanently, and rejected attempts to bring about geographic or demographic changes in the Gaza Strip.

The declaration expressed grave concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and called for respect for international humanitarian and human rights law, protection of civilians and unhindered humanitarian access.

The two-day summit is being attended by several prominent world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as the bloc attempts to build consensus amid continuing instability in the region.

Addressing the summit, Xi urged BRICS countries to play a greater role in efforts to restore peace in the Middle East and the Gulf region.

The Chinese president said Beijing was prepared to work with other BRICS members to promote peace and stability, warning that the continuing conflict was inflicting heavy losses on people across the region.

Xi’s remarks came as BRICS members sought to present a united diplomatic position despite differing relationships and interests across the Middle East.