India’s External Affairs Ministry (MEA) has voiced
deep concern over the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, following Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and civilian facilities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urged the
early restoration of peace and stability in the region. Netanyahu described Israel’s actions as
defensive measures against an existential threat posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The MEA emphasized the need for
dialogue and diplomacy to de-escalate tensions, stating India is
closely monitoring the evolving situation, including reports of attacks on nuclear sites. India maintained a
balanced stance and notably did not participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) statement, which
strongly condemned Israel’s strikes and highlighted civilian casualties.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conveyed India’s position to SCO members, underscoring concerns about the impact on regional and global security. The MEA described the strikes as an
infringement on Iran’s sovereignty and a threat to international peace.
Domestically, opposition voices criticized the government’s abstention from a UN motion protecting Gaza civilians, accusing it of abandoning India’s traditional values of peace and justice.
The United Nations Security Council held an emergency meeting, with China and Russia condemning the bombings, while Israel’s allies, including France, reaffirmed support.
Quotes:"We urge that channels of dialogue and diplomacy be utilised to work towards de-escalation," MEA statement.
Stats:"India is deeply concerned about the situation in Iran and Israel and has been closely monitoring the evolving situation, including reports related to attacks on nuclear sites."
This nuanced approach reflects India’s effort to balance its diplomatic relations amid a volatile Middle East crisis.
Sources: 
India’s External Affairs Ministry expressed deep concern over escalating Israel-Iran tensions, urging restraint and diplomacy amid recent Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Prime Minister Modi spoke with Netanyahu, emphasizing peace and stability, while India distanced itself from the SCO’s condemnation of Israel’s actions.
