SCO warns of interference in Iran internal affairs

TABNAK, Jan. 18 - The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has expressed its opposition to any interference in the internal affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

News ID: 7114

Date: 18 January 2026 - 11:21

In a statement on Friday, the SCO expressed its deep concern over the recent tragic events in the Islamic Republic of Iran that have resulted in the casualties of civilians and law enforcement officers, as well as the destruction of the civilian infrastructure.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization expressed its deepest condolences to the people and the administration of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The organization added that the unilateral sanctions inflicted a significant negative impact on Iran’s economic stability, leading to the deterioration of the conditions of life and objectively restricted the ability of the administration to implement measures to ensure the country’s socio-economic development.

The statement emphasized that the SCO opposes interference in the internal affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The SCO also called for the adherence of all countries to the principles of respecting sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of countries, and prohibiting to resort force or threat of force in international relations.

SCO was formed in 2001 by China and Russia to counter Western alliances. It also includes India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan.

Iran’s request for full and official membership was approved by the eight member states during the 21st SCO summit in the Tajik capital, Dushanbe, in September 2021.

Prior to that, Iran had been an observer member of the SCO since 2005, along with Afghanistan, Belarus, and Mongolia.