India Seeks Creative Solution to Stay at Iran's Chabahar Port Amid US Sanctions

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India is racing against time to find a way to maintain its presence at the strategic Chabahar port in Iran, which is crucial for its regional connectivity ambitions. The US has imposed sanctions on Iran, casting a shadow on the development of the port. Sources close to the matter revealed that the Indian government is exploring various options, including creating a new entity to manage the port, to mitigate the risks associated with US sanctions. The six-month exemption from US sanctions granted by the Trump administration last year is set to expire in April. To reduce exposure to sanctions, the government has taken steps to minimize the involvement of state-run entities and officials. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India remains engaged with the US on the issue, citing a conditional waiver valid until April 26, 2026. The Indian side is focused on ensuring that government entities and officials are not exposed to punitive US measures, including individual sanctions. Despite this, the Indian government has fulfilled its commitment to provide $120 million for the development of the port under a 10-year agreement signed with Iran in May 2024. The Chabahar port is a vital link for India's regional connectivity ambitions, particularly for trade with Afghanistan, Central Asia, and Russia. Retaining a presence at the port is also crucial for maintaining good relations with Iran, which has backed India on critical issues such as Kashmir. With four months left before the exemption expires, India is working closely with the US to find a solution to this complex issue.