NEW DELHI: India on Saturday distanced itself from a statement issued by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) condemning recent Israeli strikes on Iran, clarifying that it did not participate in the discussions that led to the group’s remarks.In a statement, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) said, “The Shanghai Cooperation Organization has issued a statement on recent developments between Israel and Iran. India did not participate in the discussions on the above-mentioned SCO statement.”The MEA reaffirmed India’s independent stance on the Israel-Iran tensions, first articulated on June 13, and reiterated its call for calm and dialogue. “We urge that channels of dialogue and diplomacy be utilised to work towards de-escalation. It is essential that the international community undertake endeavours in that direction,” the statement read.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar also conveyed India’s concerns directly to his Iranian counterpart during a recent conversation. According to the MEA, Jaishankar highlighted the international community’s deep concern over the rising tensions and emphasized the need to avoid further escalation and return to diplomatic engagement.The SCO statement had strongly denounced Israel’s strikes on Iranian territory, describing them as “aggressive actions against civilian targets, including energy and transport infrastructure,” which it said caused civilian casualties and violated international law and the UN Charter. It also reaffirmed support for resolving tensions around Iran’s nuclear program through peaceful and diplomatic means and expressed condolences to the Iranian people and government. India, however, reiterated its independent stance, first stated on June 13, which emphasized restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy. “India urges both sides to avoid any escalatory steps. Existing channels of dialogue and diplomacy should be utilised to work towards a de-escalation of the situation and resolving underlying issues,” the earlier MEA statement had said. The ministry added on Saturday that Jaishankar had recently spoken with his Iranian counterpart, conveying the deep concern of the international community and reiterating the need to avoid further escalation and return to diplomatic processes. India emphasized its “close and friendly relations with both countries” and reaffirmed its readiness to extend support towards efforts for peace. The MEA also noted that Indian missions in Iran and Israel remain in contact with the Indian community, advising nationals to remain cautious and follow local advisories.