The BRICS group of nations unanimously adopted a joint statement today, Saturday, expressing "deep concern" over the war in the Middle East and urging maximum restraint, while calling for a "multilateral approach" that respects national perspectives. The joint statement was adopted on the first day of the annual summit of BRICS leaders in New Delhi, at a time when the United States and Iran resumed reciprocal strikes following a halt in fighting during most of August. The "New Delhi Declaration" stated: "We express our deep concern over the continued escalation of tension in the Middle East... and we call for the exercise of maximum restraint... and to avoid actions that may further exacerbate the situation." The statement also reaffirmed the member states' commitment to achieving a peaceful settlement of international disputes "through dialogue, consultation, and diplomacy." Member states also expressed concern over the escalation of "unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures" that hinder trade, against the backdrop of US sanctions imposed on Tehran and on Russia due to its war with Ukraine.