Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, India has strategically distanced itself from a statement issued by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) condemning Israel's recent actions against Iran. The SCO, led by China, expressed "serious concern" over the situation and "strongly condemned" Israel's military strikes on Iranian territory, terming them a violation of international law. However, within hours of the SCO's declaration on Saturday, India clarified that it "did not participate in the discussion" and that its position on the matter remained unchanged.
This divergence highlights India's delicate balancing act in the region, maintaining close ties with both Israel and Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that India's stance, articulated on June 13, 2025, prioritizes de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy. "We urge 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," the MEA stated.
The SCO statement, backed by its 10 member states, asserted that Israel's "aggressive actions against civilian targets" in Iran, including energy and transport infrastructure, constituted an infringement on Iran's sovereignty and posed risks to regional and global stability. It also advocated for resolving the Iranian nuclear program issue through peaceful means.
India, however, has refrained from explicitly condemning Israel's actions. Instead, it has consistently called for restraint and a return to diplomatic channels. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed the international community's concerns to his Iranian counterpart, Syed Abbas Araghchi, urging the avoidance of further escalatory steps.
India's decision to distance itself from the SCO statement underscores its independent foreign policy approach and its commitment to maintaining strong relationships with both Israel and Iran. India is the only SCO member to have engaged diplomatically with both nations since the recent strikes. While acknowledging concerns over rising tensions, India has chosen not to endorse the SCO's collective position, emphasizing its neutral stance and advocating for peaceful resolution.
Furthermore, India's MEA has said that it communicated its position to other SCO members, clarifying that it did not take part in the deliberations on the joint statement.
This nuanced approach reflects India's broader strategic interests in the region. India has close economic and security ties with Israel, while also maintaining important energy and trade relations with Iran. A destabilized Middle East could have significant implications for India's energy security and its large diaspora in the region.
By urging dialogue and diplomacy, India seeks to play a constructive role in de-escalating tensions and promoting regional stability, safeguarding its own interests while navigating the complex dynamics of the Israel-Iran relationship. India has also abstained from a UN vote on a Gaza ceasefire, further highlighting its neutral stance.
Meanwhile, Tehran has expressed appreciation for "India's solidarity with Iran and its condemnation of the Israeli regime's aggression" following the conversation between Jaishankar and Araghchi. According to Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jaishankar conveyed sympathies to the Iranian people following Israel's attacks and stressed the importance of strengthening international efforts to de-escalate tensions.
As the situation continues to unfold, India's diplomatic engagement with both Israel and Iran will be crucial in fostering a peaceful resolution and preventing further escalation in the region.
