Only China-Russia-India can stop war with Iran: US economist Jeffrey Sachs

The director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, Sachs, said, “At this moment, there are only three adult leaders in the world who can stop this crisis—and they must act together.” Renowned American economist and academic Jeffrey Sachs remarked that only three powers—China, Russia, and India—can effectively and jointly play a role in stopping the US–Israel-led war against Iran. He noted that “adult leadership” is needed to halt the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He made these comments while speaking with host Afshin Rattansi on the program “New Order” on the Russia-based broadcaster RT. Sachs reiterated, “At this moment, there are only three adult leaders in the world who can stop this crisis—and they must take joint initiative.” He further said, “Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin—these are the leaders of the three other major powers in the world.” He also mentioned that the leadership of these countries carries a major responsibility in maintaining global stability. Sachs added that a segment of Israel’s political leadership still believes in a “6th century BC mindset,” which is incompatible with present realities. When asked about Pakistan’s potential mediation efforts to end the Iran war, he said, “In my view, only the BRICS countries can do this,” emphasizing the role of the BRICS bloc. Warning about Modi’s closeness with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Sachs said, “This is not the time to be Netanyahu’s friend. India, as a large country and a potential superpower, cannot align itself with a state that has carried out genocide in Gaza.” Regarding India–Israel relations, he said, “This is not a friendship, strategic alliance, or partnership—it is not aligned with India’s interests.” According to Sachs, India has the capability to reject what he described as the United States’ “misconceptions,” but he stressed that this position should not be taken alone; rather, it should be coordinated with Russia, China, Brazil, and other BRICS countries. He also said that India’s presidency in the BRICS bloc makes it an important candidate for mediation in this crisis. At the same time, he hinted that it is not easy to negotiate individually with Donald Trump, so moving forward collectively with partners is a more realistic strategy. Sachs also highlighted India’s long-standing relationship with Iran as a positive factor for mediation. Additionally, criticizing Western countries, he said they are largely influenced and directed by the United States, and in this context, he urged India not to repeat the same stance as these “dependent states.”