Full Breakdown
UAE-Iran Leadership Meeting at BRICS Highlights Hormuz Standoff and Bloc Divisions
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On the sidelines of the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on September 12. It was the highest-level dialogue between the two sides since the U.S.–Israel war with Iran began in February 2026. Both leaders called for de-escalation and regional stability, but no concrete trade or Strait of Hormuz agreement was announced.
Background & Context
The February 2026 conflict led Iran to threaten, and at times partially close, the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global energy shipments. In response, the United Arab Emirates suspended all trade and financial transactions with Iran on August 19. Earlier, on August 5, Iran announced an agreement with Oman on a joint shipping route through the strait, noting that safety could not be guaranteed while the U.S. naval presence continued.
Timeline
- August 5 – Iran and Oman agree on a joint shipping route.
- August 19 – UAE halts trade and financial dealings with Iran.
- September 10 – India scheduled to host the BRICS summit.
- September 12-13 – BRICS summit held in New Delhi; UAE-Iran leaders meet.
Data & Statistics
- Non-oil trade between the UAE and BRICS members reached $312 billion last year, over 30 % of the UAE’s non-oil trade, a 28.5 % year-on-year rise (UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade).
- Crude oil prices rose above $100 per barrel, touching $110 amid Hormuz disruptions.
- The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, slated for July 14, heightened concerns over global oil supply.
Official Statements & Responses
- Anwar Gargash, presidential diplomatic adviser, warned that “our energy exports will not be held hostage, nor will our trade and economic activity” and called for a political solution.
- President Pezeshkian said Iran would brief Gulf states on a new agreement and noted the route would not amount to a full reopening of the strait.
- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed “maximum restraint,” protection of civilians, and the preservation of maritime trade routes.
On-the-Ground Reports
Qeshm governor Amir Teymouri reported a merchant vessel was struck near Iran’s Hengam and Qeshm islands, killing one person; the source of the strike was not identified.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
UAE and Iranian officials described the meeting as constructive but did not announce any change to the August 19 trade suspension. Bloomberg and Euronews indicated no specific agreement was reached, while Iranian statements hinted at a forthcoming brief to Gulf states. The lack of a confirmed outcome leaves Hormuz navigation uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our energy exports will not be held hostage, nor will our trade and economic activity,” — Anwar Gargash
- “The Gulf conflict is going to be the central fault line this time during the BRICS summit,” — Harsh V. Pant, Observer Research Foundation
What’s Next
- Arab foreign ministers will meet in Muscat the Monday after the summit to discuss the Iran-Oman shipping route.
- Iran plans to brief Gulf states on the arrangement, without committing to a full reopening of the strait.
- BRICS leaders are expected to issue a joint declaration addressing the Middle-East conflict and Global South priorities.