India articulates 'dialogue and diplomacy' stance as SCO condemns Israeli strikes on Iran

India has clarified its independent stance on the escalating Israel-Iran conflict at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), reiterating its call for "dialogue and diplomacy" to achieve de-escalation. This clarification comes as the China-led regional bloc issued a strong condemnation of recent Israeli strikes on Iran. While the SCO's joint statement expressed "serious concern" and "strongly condemned" the military actions carried out by Israel on June 13, India chose to articulate its own consistent position on the matter, emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution.

The External Affairs Ministry stated that India's position, initially articulated on June 13, remains unchanged. "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 ministry's statement affirmed. This diplomatic approach underscores India's effort to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, maintaining its strategic partnerships while advocating for peace and stability in the Middle East. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had also engaged with his Israeli and Iranian counterparts on Friday, conveying New Delhi's deep concern over the escalating tensions and urging all parties to avoid any further escalatory steps.

India's decision to distance itself from the SCO's collective condemnation highlights its careful balancing act in the region. Although a founding member of the SCO, New Delhi did not participate in the discussions that led to the adoption of the bloc's forceful statement against Israel. This deliberate choice reflects India's strategic approach of remaining engaged in regional dialogues without being drawn into bloc politics, especially concerning a sensitive issue where it maintains significant ties with both Israel and Iran. The broader concerns shared by many Eurasian states within the SCO about the potential for a wider conflict further emphasize the urgency of India's call for de-escalation.