India has reassured that the Chabahar port terminal remains undamaged amidst ongoing US airstrikes in the region, urging for the protection of civilian infrastructure.
Chandigarh, India Jul 18, 2026 ALN: India has recently urged nations involved in the escalating conflict in West Asia to refrain from targeting civilian infrastructure. This statement comes in light of reports indicating that the Shahid Beheshti terminal at Iran's strategically significant Chabahar port, in which India has a stake, has not been damaged by recent US airstrikes. The Chabahar port, located in the Gulf of Oman, is a critical component of India's strategy to enhance connectivity and trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, particularly amid the shifting geopolitical landscape following the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan.
The backdrop to this situation is the breakdown of the Iran-US ceasefire, primarily due to disputes over shipping regulations in the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial maritime chokepoint through which approximately 20% of the world's oil passes. Following the collapse of this ceasefire, US forces have conducted airstrikes on various Iranian infrastructures, including Chabahar port and Bandar Abbas port. Notably, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared an image depicting the collapse of a maritime traffic control tower at Chabahar during these strikes, raising concerns about the safety and operational integrity of the port.
In this context, the External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the situation, stating, “We can also tell you that the [Shahid Beheshti] terminal itself did not face any damage.” This assurance is crucial as the terminal is a key component of India's strategy to enhance connectivity and trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, being integral to the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). The INSTC aims to connect India with Russia and Europe through Iran, thereby reducing transit times and costs. The Chabahar port is vital for India to establish a foothold in Afghanistan, especially as the geopolitical landscape evolves with the withdrawal of US troops from the region and the increasing influence of neighboring countries.
In addition to the immediate concerns regarding military actions, a US waiver concerning Iran-related sanctions, which had previously facilitated India's involvement in developing Chabahar port, expired in late April. This waiver allowed India to engage in economic activities within Iran despite the broader sanctions imposed by the US. Jaiswal highlighted ongoing discussions with relevant stakeholders regarding the future of India's operations at the port, stating, “There was a waiver which was given by the American side, that waiver got over some time back. Post that, we have been in discussion with relevant stakeholders as to how to take this particular issue forward.” This statement underscores the delicate balance India must maintain in navigating its diplomatic relations with both the US and Iran while pursuing its strategic interests in the region.
India has consistently maintained that civilian infrastructure should not be targeted during hostilities. Jaiswal reiterated this stance, emphasizing that this principle should be upheld under all circumstances. This assertion reflects India's broader foreign policy approach, which advocates for peace and stability in the region, particularly as it pertains to its investments and economic interests. The Indian government’s insistence on the protection of civilian infrastructure aligns with its long-standing policy of non-interference and respect for sovereignty, principles that India has championed in various international forums.
Chabahar port, located in the Gulf of Oman, provides India with a direct route to Afghanistan, circumventing Pakistan, which has historically denied India access to land transit routes. This strategic port not only enhances India's connectivity with Afghanistan but also serves to reduce India's reliance on traditional maritime chokepoints, thereby bolstering its trade routes. The port is seen as a counterbalance to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which has raised concerns in New Delhi regarding Beijing's growing influence in South Asia. The significance of Chabahar is further underscored by its potential to serve as a transit hub for goods moving between India, Iran, and beyond, thus positioning India as a key player in regional trade.
Recent speculation regarding the future of India's operations at the Shahid Beheshti terminal has arisen following the abrupt closure of India Ports Global Limited, the state-owned entity responsible for the port's operations since 2018. This speculation has been compounded by the resignation of Indian officials from the firm in response to US sanctions, which have created an uncertain operating environment for Indian businesses in Iran. The closure of this entity raises questions about the viability of India's long-term investments in the region, especially as it seeks to strengthen its economic ties with Central Asia. The uncertainty surrounding the operational status of Chabahar port could have broader implications for India's strategic objectives in the region, particularly in the context of its engagement with Afghanistan and Central Asia.
Moreover, budget documents indicate a significant reduction in the allocation for Chabahar, which was revised from ₹100 crore to ₹400 crore for the fiscal year 2025-26, but subsequently cut to zero for 2026-27. Such budgetary cuts could signal a shift in India’s strategic priorities or reflect the challenges faced in continuing operations at the port amidst a changing geopolitical landscape. The reduction in funding could also impact the pace of development at the port and India's ability to realize its strategic objectives in the region. The financial constraints may limit India's capacity to invest in necessary infrastructure upgrades and maintenance, potentially jeopardizing the long-term sustainability of the port's operations.
In conclusion, as tensions continue to rise in West Asia, India's commitment to the safety of its investments and infrastructure in the region remains steadfast, with a clear call for the protection of civilian assets amidst the ongoing conflict. The situation at Chabahar port is emblematic of the broader challenges that India faces as it seeks to navigate its foreign policy objectives in a complex and often volatile environment. The developments in this region will likely have significant implications not only for India's economic interests but also for its diplomatic relations with key partners and stakeholders in the international arena. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, India will need to carefully assess its strategies and adapt to the changing dynamics to ensure the safety and viability of its investments in West Asia.
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