Full Breakdown
BRICS New Delhi Declaration Calls for Energy Security Amid West Asia Conflict
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Adoption of the New Delhi Declaration
- When: September 12 at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.
- What: BRICS leaders adopted a joint declaration that stresses stable energy markets, uninterrupted supplies, and the protection of critical energy infrastructure—including cross-border networks.
- Key language: The text urges “maximum restraint,” protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, respect for sovereignty, and the smooth flow of global trade and energy in accordance with international law.
Background & Context
The West Asia war, which began on February 28 after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, has disrupted two vital maritime chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz—once carrying roughly one-fifth of global crude oil and LNG—now sees vessel movements reduced to a “trickle.” Simultaneously, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait faces heightened pressure from Iran-aligned Houthi actions. Attacks on oil facilities by U.S. and Israeli forces, Iranian-backed Houthi militia, and Iranian strikes on Saudi and UAE assets have tightened global supplies.
Data & Statistics
- Hormuz share: Approximately 20 % of worldwide crude oil and LNG flows previously transited the strait.
- Oil prices: Brent crude breached $100 per barrel, closing around $105—the highest level in roughly three-and-a-half months.
Official Statements & Responses
The declaration states: “We recognize that energy security is a crucial foundation for social and economic development, national security and the welfare of all nations… we highlight the need to enhance energy security by ensuring market stability and maintaining undisrupted flows of energy from diverse sources, strengthening value chains, ensuring resilience and protection of critical energy infrastructure, including cross-border infrastructure.”
BRICS members expressed “deep concern” over the West Asia escalation and called for “maximum restraint” and avoidance of actions that could further aggravate the situation. While affirming the continued role of fossil fuels for emerging markets, the declaration also promotes renewable, nuclear, hydrogen, and low-carbon technologies as part of a balanced energy mix.
On-the-Ground Impact
- Saudi pipeline shutdown: Saudi Arabia temporarily closed its East-West oil pipeline after multiple attacks, curtailing a key Hormuz-bypass export route.
- Houthi pressure on Bab el-Mandeb: The seizure of Yemen’s Mocha port and increased Houthi activity threaten a second major oil transit corridor, compounding supply risks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Today, the Global South stands in the front row of global crises but in the back row of the decision-making process. We must transform this 'pyramid of privilege' into a 'platform of partnership' -- one where every nation has a voice, every member has a stake, and the development of humanity lies at the heart of every effort,” — Narendra Modi, prime minister
What’s Next
A meeting scheduled for September 14 in Oman will bring together Iran, Gulf Cooperation Council members, and Iraq to discuss transit arrangements through the Strait of Hormuz.