New Delhi: India has formally distanced itself from a statement released by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) that strongly criticized Israel for its recent military actions against Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that New Delhi did not participate in the discussions that led to the issuance of the statement, reaffirming India’s independent stance on the matter.
In a statement released Saturday, the Indian foreign ministry reiterated that its position on the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel had already been communicated on Friday. India had called for restraint and emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement and dialogue to prevent further deterioration in regional stability.
The SCO statement, issued earlier the same day, expressed "serious concern" over rising tensions in the Middle East and directly condemned Israel for conducting strikes on Iranian territory. It accused Israel of targeting civilian infrastructure, including energy and transport facilities, resulting in civilian casualties—a move the SCO described as a “gross violation of international law.”
Furthermore, the SCO warned against any unlawful actions targeting member states. The organization’s members include India, Iran, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. However, India clarified that it had conveyed its independent position to fellow SCO members and did not endorse the collective statement.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held separate conversations on Friday with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. During these discussions, Jaishankar conveyed the international community’s concern and urged both parties to avoid further escalation, instead advocating for a return to diplomatic channels.
Earlier, India had voiced concern over the unfolding developments, including reported attacks on nuclear facilities. Stressing its balanced ties with both Iran and Israel, the Indian government offered to contribute to peace efforts in the region.
India’s refusal to associate with the SCO’s strongly-worded statement follows closely on the heels of its abstention from a UN General Assembly resolution that called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. The resolution was adopted with support from 149 countries, while India opted not to cast a vote, signaling its cautious approach toward moves that might be perceived as overly critical of Israel—a key defense partner that has supplied crucial military equipment, particularly during periods of heightened tensions with Pakistan.
