India has distanced itself from a recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) statement that condemned Israel’s military actions against Iran. In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that India neither participated in the discussions surrounding the statement nor endorsed its contents, reaffirming New Delhi’s independent stance on the issue.
“The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has released a statement regarding the developments between Israel and Iran,” the MEA said. “India’s own position was clearly expressed on June 13 and remains unchanged. We continue to call for restraint, de-escalation, and the use of diplomacy and dialogue. It is crucial that the international community supports these efforts.”
The MEA added that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had conveyed India’s concerns directly to his Iranian counterpart on June 13, emphasising the need to avoid escalation and encouraging an early return to diplomatic engagement.
India’s stance was communicated to fellow SCO members in advance, and based on that position, India chose not to take part in drafting or endorsing the statement.
The final SCO communiqué, issued by the 10-member bloc that includes China, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, and India, sharply criticised Israel’s military operations. However, India opted not to align with the consensus, highlighting its commitment to a balanced and diplomatic approach.