Top diplomat: Iran emerged victorious, strengthened its regional status

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that international counterparts at the sidelines of the BRICS summit widely discussed what he described as a “war and illegal aggression” against Iran, adding that many states were seeking to understand how Tehran “resisted” and emerged “victorious”.

Speaking to Iranian state media, Araghchi said foreign delegations had shown “great interest” in Iran’s conduct during the conflict and in the future trajectory of the region, claiming there was a broad recognition among participants that Tehran had “thwarted” its adversaries’ objectives and strengthened its regional position.

He said the conflict marked “a turning point” that had significantly elevated Iran’s standing, arguing that the country should now consolidate its position as a “regional power and key actor capable of confronting major powers”.

Araghchi also said that discussions at BRICS meetings reflected a growing consensus that regional frameworks required a “new outlook” in light of recent developments.

In unusually direct remarks, he accused the United Arab Emirates of siding with the United States and Israel during the confrontation, alleging that it provided operational support, including airspace and logistical facilitation for US forces. He said Iran had only targeted “US-related objectives” in Emirati territory.

The Emirati authorities have not publicly responded to the claims.

Araghchi added that Iran had avoided raising the issue during BRICS discussions to preserve unity, but said it was compelled to respond after the Emirati delegation raised related points.

He also urged Gulf states to reconsider reliance on external security guarantees, saying regional stability should be built through cooperation rather than “foreign forces”.