Official sources said last week’s BRICS meeting of officials on the Middle East could not produce a consensus document because of the wide difference in stances among the members involved in the conflict.According to Indian officials, all other efforts to bridge the gap were not successful. India holds the chairmanship of BRICS this year and will host the foreign ministers’ meeting next month, ahead of the summit later this year. Due to lack of consensus, no joint statement could be reached in the meeting of junior foreign ministers and special envoys last week.Instead, a statement from the Chairman was issued stating that members expressed deep concern over the recent conflict in the Middle East and offered views and assessments on the matter. The discussions covered the Palestine issue and the situation in Gaza, including the provision of humanitarian assistance, the role of UNRWA, the zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism, welcoming the ceasefire in Lebanon.While Iran is seeking BRICS solidarity against the US and Iran, urging India to work towards a consensus, a joint statement remains elusive with the UAE and Saudi Arabia – which are in favor of the conflict – even in the grouping of major emerging economies. Government sources denied any softening of India’s position on the Palestine issue and reiterated that India remains committed to a two-state solution.“On the Palestine issue, India recently reached an agreed position with the Arab League, including Palestine, on January 26. India has been clear in its support for the two-state solution,” a source said, adding that several BRICS countries had supported the Sharm el-Sheikh peace summit and UNSC resolution 2803, which endorsed a comprehensive 20-point peace plan to end the conflict in Gaza, including the establishment of a peace board.Official sources said these have been remarkable developments in the last year.Since the beginning of the conflict in Gaza, India has provided approximately 70 MT humanitarian assistance in two tranches, including 16.5 MT medicines and medical supplies. It also released $5 million last year and another $5 million this year to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Recently, 65 tons of medicines were also sent to UNRWA and the Palestine Ministry of Health in October and November 2024.According to Indian officials, India’s policy towards Palestine is long-standing and includes support for a negotiated two-state solution and the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine living at peace with Israel within secure and recognized borders. India also supports Palestine’s membership in the United Nations.