SCO condemns Israeli strikes on Iran as over 100 killed; India dissents
Shanghai bloc denounces assault on Tehran while India refuses to back statement on Israel’s deadly attacks
NEW DELHI
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on Saturday condemned Israeli air strikes on Iran that have killed more than 100 people since Thursday night, but India dissented and declined to endorse the group’s statement.
“The member states express serious concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East,” the SCO said, calling the strikes a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.
Israel launched air strikes deep into Iranian territory on Thursday night, targeting what it said were nuclear and military facilities. At least 78 people with 320 others injured, according to figures earlier announced by Iran's UN envoy. Tehran's retaliatory attacks began Friday night.
The SCO described the Israeli attacks as “aggressive actions against civilian targets” and said they “constitute an infringement on Iran’s sovereignty, cause damage to regional and international security, and pose serious risks to global peace and stability.”
It added: “The SCO member states firmly advocate for the resolution of the situation surrounding Iran’s nuclear program exclusively through peaceful, political, and diplomatic means,” and extended “sincere condolences” to the people and government of Iran.
The bloc also reaffirmed that it “considers any unlawful actions directed against SCO member states unacceptable” and reiterated its commitment to international peace and security.
However, India distanced itself from the statement. The Foreign Ministry in New Delhi said it did not participate in discussions on the SCO declaration.
“India’s own position on the matter remains the same,” the ministry 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.”
India has so far stopped short of condemning Israel over the attacks but has repeatedly called for restraint and dialogue. Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar spoke with his Iranian counterpart, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, and conveyed “deep concern of the international community at the turn of events,” according to the ministry.
The SCO, founded in 2001, comprises 10 member states: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran and Belarus. Iran joined as a full member in 2023.
