What India’s break with SCO reveals about its stance on Israel-Iran conflict

In a chorus of condemnation, India’s silence spoke volumes. New Delhi has distanced itself from a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) statement denouncing Israel’s attacks on Iran, revealing the intricate web of interests tying it to both warring states.

The SCO – a 10-member bloc focused on economic and security interests, and currently chaired by China – issued a statement on Saturday censuring Israel’s military action. But India’s endorsement was conspicuously absent.

Other SCO members, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus and Iran, backed the communique that “strongly condemned” the Israeli strikes on Iranian territory, dubbed Operation Rising Lion. Delhi, by contrast, called separately for both Middle Eastern nations to resolve their differences through dialogue.

The escalating conflict, launched by Israel last week with the stated aim of curbing Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, has already exacted a heavy toll. Iran has reported more than 200 deaths, while Israel says 24 people have been killed and over 600 wounded so far.

India’s opt-out from the SCO’s censure reflects its assertion of strategic autonomy, as well as its reluctance to alienate either side, according to Shanthie D’Souza, senior research fellow at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst specialising in international relations.

“Unlike many SCO members, who lack a strong diplomatic relationship with Israel and can therefore issue strong statements … India has significant strategic interests in both Iran and Israel,” D’Souza said.

  

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