Story perspectives

SCO Backs Iran Amid Protests, Rejects External Interference

1/18/2026

Center

SCO Supports Iran

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) expressed support for Iran and opposed external interference, notably from Washington.
The SCO stressed a peaceful resolution to the Iran situation through political and diplomatic means.
The SCO reaffirmed its commitment to sovereignty and non-use of force.
Iran faces unrest, with hundreds of protesters and security officers reported dead as authorities suppress protests driven by a severe economic crisis and rising food prices.

Right

Iran Condemns Interference

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi condemned U.S. and Israeli interference during calls with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev.
He claimed peaceful economic protests turned violent due to "trained terrorists" backed by foreign powers.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized human rights and non-interference.
SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev reiterated commitment to sovereignty and non-use of force.
Protests, initially peaceful, escalated, causing casualties and damage to public property.

1 of 2

SCO Supports Iran

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) expressed support for Iran and opposed external interference, notably from Washington.
The SCO stressed a peaceful resolution to the Iran situation through political and diplomatic means.
The SCO reaffirmed its commitment to sovereignty and non-use of force.
Iran faces unrest, with hundreds of protesters and security officers reported dead as authorities suppress protests driven by a severe economic crisis and rising food prices.

1 / 2