India has distanced itself from a statement issued by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) that condemned Israel's recent strikes on Iran. The SCO statement expressed "serious concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East and strongly condemned the military strikes carried out by Israel on the territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran on June 13, 2025." The organization also stated that the strikes were a "gross violation of international law and the United Nations Charter" and posed "serious risks to global peace and stability".
India, however, did not participate in the discussions regarding the SCO statement. Instead, New Delhi articulated its position separately, emphasizing its commitment to diplomacy and dialogue in resolving the conflict. According to a statement released on June 14, 2025, India's position "had been articulated by us on 13 June 2025, and remains the same". The statement further urged that "channels of dialogue and diplomacy be utilised to work towards de-escalation and it is essential that the international community undertake endeavours in that direction." India's External Affairs Minister also discussed the matter with his Iranian counterpart, conveying the international community's deep concern and urging the avoidance of escalatory steps, advocating for a swift return to diplomacy.
This decision to not endorse the SCO statement reflects India's historically neutral stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict and its broader approach to foreign policy, which prioritizes maintaining good relations with all countries in the region. India has close ties with both Israel and Iran. India's statement highlights its belief that direct communication and diplomatic solutions are the most effective way to de-escalate tensions and promote stability.
The SCO, in its statement, criticized the Israeli strikes, asserting that "such aggressive actions against civilian targets, including energy and transport infrastructure, which have resulted in civilian casualties, are a gross violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. They constitute an infringement on Iran's sovereignty, cause damage to regional and international security, and pose serious risks to global peace and stability."
India's decision to abstain from the SCO statement underscores its independent foreign policy and its commitment to finding peaceful resolutions to international disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. While many nations and organizations have taken a firm stance, India is trying to navigate the complexities of the situation while maintaining its relationships with both countries.