India Distances Itself from SCO Statement Condemning Israel, Calls for Dialogue and De-escalation

India has clarified its position on the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, distancing itself from a strongly worded statement issued by the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) that condemned Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

In a statement on Saturday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that India did not participate in the discussions that led to the SCO statement. Instead, New Delhi reiterated its consistent call for “dialogue and diplomacy” to reduce tensions in the region.

“India’s position on the matter had been clearly articulated on June 13 and remains unchanged,” the MEA said. “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 clarification came shortly after the SCO accused Israel of violating international law with its strikes on Iranian civilian and nuclear facilities, claiming the attacks caused civilian casualties and endangered regional and global peace.

“The actions by Israel seriously violated the principles of international law and the UN Charter,” the SCO statement read. “They undermined Iran’s sovereignty and posed a threat to global security.”

The SCO is a 10-member regional bloc led by China and includes India, Russia, Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asian nations.

India’s Diplomatic Outreach

The MEA also confirmed that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had spoken to his Israeli and Iranian counterparts on Friday. During the calls, Jaishankar conveyed the “deep concern” of the international community and called for restraint.

He also urged “the avoidance of any escalatory steps and an early return to diplomacy.”

India further explained that its independent stance was communicated to SCO member states, and as a result, it abstained from participating in the bloc’s statement.

PM Modi Speaks with Netanyahu

The MEA’s statement follows a phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Modi said he was briefed on the latest developments and expressed India’s concern over the deteriorating situation in West Asia.

“Received a phone call from PM @netanyahu of Israel. He briefed me on the evolving situation,” Modi posted on social media. “I shared India’s concerns and emphasised the need for early restoration of peace and stability in the region.”

Netanyahu has also briefed former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on the situation.

India, which shares close ties with both Israel and Iran, has consistently urged both nations to avoid further escalation and has offered to support efforts aimed at restoring peace.