1. India wasn’t part of the internal discussions

  • India clarified that it did not participate in the deliberations within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) that led to the condemnation of Israel.
  • As such, it distanced itself from the statement, making it clear that it had no role in framing or approving the language used.


2. Maintaining a neutral, diplomatic stance

  • India expressed concern over rising tensions between Israel and Iran but avoided assigning blame.
  • It emphasized the importance of de-escalation and dialogue, reflecting its long-standing commitment to diplomacy over confrontation.



3. Balancing strategic ties with Israel and Iran

  • With Israel: India has cultivated deep defense, technology, and intelligence ties with Israel, making it one of India's most important partners in West Asia.
  • With Iran: At the same time, India has maintained strong energy, cultural, and regional connectivity ties with Iran—especially through the Chabahar Port project and regional security cooperation.



4. Upholding India’s independent foreign policy

  • India has a tradition of non-alignment and strategic autonomy, especially in complex international disputes.
  • It refrains from taking sides in bloc politics, allowing it to act based on its national interests rather than ideological alignment.



📌 Bottom line

India’s refusal to support the SCO condemnation of Israel was not an endorsement of military action. It was a strategic diplomatic choice that:

  • Avoided participation in a process it disagreed with,
  • Encouraged restraint and negotiation instead of confrontation,
  • Protected its strategic partnerships with both Israel and Iran,
  • Asserted its right to an independent foreign policy, free from bloc-level pressures.