Why India Refused to Join SCO’s Condemnation of Israel's Attacks on Iran

 

Indian and Israeli flags symbolizing diplomatic relations during Middle East tensions

India has recently taken a neutral stance while the rest of the SCO member countries issued a strong statement condemning Israel's airstrikes on Iran. This silence from New Delhi has raised serious questions among analysts and observers worldwide. While countries like China, Russia, and Iran strongly opposed Israel’s actions, India chose not to participate in drafting or endorsing the statement. This decision was not accidental—it reflects a deeper strategy.


The growing conflict between Israel and Iran reached a dangerous level when Israel bombed multiple nuclear and military sites in Iran. These attacks resulted in dozens of civilian deaths, including scientists and military commanders. Iran responded with missiles targeting major Israeli cities, killing people and further escalating tensions. In this environment, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), which includes many Asian powers, came together to condemn Israel’s actions. But India stepped back.


India has always walked a careful diplomatic path. It maintains strong defense cooperation with Israel, buying billions in weapons. At the same time, it invests in Iranian infrastructure, especially the Chabahar Port, a strategic sea route for Indian exports to Central Asia. This creates a situation where India cannot afford to pick sides openly.


India's Ministry of External Affairs issued its own statement. It expressed concern over the violence and called for restraint and dialogue. India made it clear that it wants peace and does not support military escalation. Yet, by not joining the SCO’s statement, India showed that it values its ability to maintain relationships on both sides of this conflict.


Some observers feel this neutrality leans in favor of Israel. Especially considering that just days earlier, India abstained from voting on a United Nations resolution that demanded a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. This surprised many analysts who expected India to vote in favor of peace. But India is also pursuing a critical trade deal with the United States, and perhaps this influenced its decisions at the UN and at the SCO.


India's relationship with Iran is also facing challenges. After Donald Trump returned to the U.S. presidency, sanctions were reimposed on Iran. These include penalties that could affect India’s Chabahar investment. Without a waiver from Washington, India may have to pause or abandon projects in Iran, losing millions of dollars and strategic access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.


Despite all this, India continues to push for a diplomatic resolution. Its choice to remain neutral is not a sign of weakness, but of a strategy. India is focused on long-term interests—defense, energy, trade, and influence. It cannot risk burning bridges with any side.


This balancing act may not please everyone, but for India, it may be the only path that protects its global goals while trying to support peace and stability in a very volatile region.India’s refusal to join the SCO’s condemnation of Israel reveals more than just a diplomatic stance—it highlights a careful balancing act driven by national interests. New Delhi is navigating a complex web of alliances: strong defense ties with Israel, strategic infrastructure investments in Iran, and a vital trade relationship with the United States. In an increasingly polarized world, India is choosing strategic autonomy over alignment, preferring to preserve flexibility in global affairs rather than commit to one side. This move may seem controversial, but for India, it’s a calculated decision to protect its long-term regional and global interests.


If you found this analysis insightful, reflect on how global politics affects every nation’s decisions. Stay informed, question narratives, and always seek to understand the deeper reasons behind international events. Your awareness is your power.





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