Following escalating tensions in the Middle East, triggered by Israeli military strikes on Iranian territory on June 13, 2025, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) issued a statement strongly condemning the attacks. The SCO, a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance, characterized the strikes as a violation of international law and the UN Charter, citing the targeting of civilian infrastructure and the resulting casualties. However, India, a member of the SCO with close ties to both Iran and Israel, has distanced itself from the statement, underscoring the complexities of its foreign policy in the region.
The SCO's statement expressed "serious concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East" and explicitly condemned the Israeli military actions. The organization asserted that the strikes, which reportedly targeted Iranian military and nuclear sites, infringed upon Iran's sovereignty and posed a significant risk to regional and global stability. The SCO further emphasized its support for a peaceful resolution to the conflict surrounding Iran's nuclear program through diplomatic channels.
In response, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a separate statement clarifying that India did not participate in the discussions that led to the SCO's condemnation. The MEA reiterated India's position, articulated on June 13, which urged both Iran and Israel to de-escalate tensions through dialogue and diplomacy. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reportedly spoke with his Iranian counterpart, conveying the international community's concern and advocating for a return to diplomatic engagement. The MEA emphasized that India's overall position had been communicated to other SCO members.
India's decision to distance itself from the SCO statement reflects the delicate balancing act it undertakes in its foreign policy. India maintains strong strategic partnerships with both Israel and Iran, countries with historically strained relations. Israel is a key defense partner for India, while Iran is vital for India's energy security and regional connectivity, particularly through projects like the Chabahar Port.
By not endorsing the SCO's condemnation, India signals its continued support for Israel, a stance it has maintained even amidst growing international criticism of Israeli actions. This position aligns with India's recent abstention from a UN General Assembly resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. However, India's emphasis on dialogue and de-escalation also demonstrates its commitment to maintaining stable relations with Iran and promoting regional peace.
The SCO, of which Iran became a member in 2023, includes countries such as China, Russia, Pakistan, and several Central Asian states. The organization's strong condemnation of Israel highlights the growing divide between some Eurasian powers and the West regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and related regional issues. India's decision to stand apart from the SCO statement underscores its independent foreign policy approach and its commitment to pursuing its national interests while navigating complex geopolitical challenges. The situation reflects India's continued efforts to balance competing interests and maintain its credibility as a responsible actor on the global stage.
