India has declined to endorse a Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) statement condemning Israel’s military strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, reinforcing its neutral stance amid escalating Middle East tensions. The SCO—led by China and including Russia, Iran, and Pakistan—had denounced Israel’s June 13 operation as a “blatant violation of international law” threatening global stability 157.
In a collective declaration, the 10-member SCO condemned Israel for targeting civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities, warning of “dangerous consequences for international peace.” The bloc affirmed solidarity with Iran, extending condolences for casualties and advocating diplomatic resolution of nuclear disputes. Türkiye, Oman, and Russia echoed these sentiments, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov condemning the strikes during talks with Iran.
India’s External Affairs Ministry clarified it abstained from SCO discussions, reiterating its June 13 call for “dialogue and diplomacy.” Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar urged de-escalation in separate calls with Iranian and Israeli counterparts, reflecting New Delhi’s “close and friendly relations with both” nations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reinforced this during a conversation with Benjamin Netanyahu, stressing regional stability concerns.
India’s stance stems from competing interests:
Defense Ties with Israel: A $10 billion partnership includes advanced UAVs, missile systems (Barak-8), and intelligence-sharing critical for India’s security, notably during recent clashes with Pakistan.
Energy and Connectivity with Iran: India relies on Iranian cooperation for the Chabahar Port and International North-South Transport Corridor, countering China’s Belt and Road Initiative. U.S. sanctions waivers for these projects remain vital.
This balancing act shields India’s role in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a U.S.-backed trade initiative jeopardized by regional fragmentation.
Iran reported 78 deaths and 320 injuries from the strikes, which killed Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami and nuclear scientists. Retaliatory missile launches by Iran injured Israelis, escalating fears of wider conflict. Pakistan, an SCO member, backed the condemnation, viewing India-Israel defense collaboration as a direct threat.
The SCO’s unified position contrasts with Western responses. While the U.S. denied involvement, European powers urged restraint. The strikes derailed planned U.S.-Iran nuclear talks in Oman, complicating de-escalation efforts.