India opts out of SCO discussions on Israel-Iran conflict

New Delhi: In a surprising move, India did not participate in the discussions on the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) joint statement regarding the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India’s position on the matter was communicated to the SCO members.

"The SCO has issued a statement on recent developments between Israel and Iran. India's own position on the matter had been articulated by us on 13 June 2025, and remains the same. 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," read a MEA statement.

MEA also stated that the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, discussed the matter with his Iranian counterpart on Friday. He also urged the avoidance of any escalatory steps and an early return to diplomacy.

The SCO also expressed grave concerns over the escalating tensions in the Middle East and strongly condemned the military strikes carried out by Israel.

"Such aggressive actions against civilian targets, including energy and transport infrastructure, which have resulted in civilian casualties, are a gross violation of international law and the United Nations Charter. They constitute an infringement on Iran's sovereignty, cause damage to regional and international security, and pose serious risks to global peace and stability," the SCO said in a statement.

"The SCO member states firmly advocate for the resolution of the situation surrounding Iran's nuclear programme exclusively through peaceful, political, and diplomatic means," it added.

The member states of SCO included India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Belarus.

"Our Missions in both countries are in contact with the Indian community. All Indian nationals in the region are advised to exercise caution, stay safe and follow local security advisories," it further added.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday announced the launch of 'Operation Rising Lion' against Iran, a targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat of nuclear weapons to Israel's very survival. He asserted that the operation would continue for as many days as it took to remove the threat.

Tensions in the Middle East escalated further on Saturday as Iran launched a fresh wave of missile attacks on Israel. The renewed offensive comes amid a period of heightened hostilities between the two nations.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the attack, stating that a barrage of projectiles had been launched toward Israeli territory.

In a brief statement, the military said, “another barrage has been fired towards Israel”, though the total number of missiles and specific areas targeted were not immediately disclosed. IANS