India said on Monday that discussions are ongoing with both Iran and the United States over the future of the strategically important Chabahar Port, after a US sanctions waiver allowing India’s involvement in the project expired on April 26.
Responding to queries at a briefing on the West Asia situation, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the matter remains “under discussion” with both countries. He added that the evolving regional conflict has made the situation more complex.
The Chabahar Port project is seen as a key connectivity initiative for India, aimed at facilitating trade with Afghanistan and enhancing access to Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan. It has also been crucial for supporting Afghanistan’s reconstruction and economic development.
The United States had initially granted India a sanctions exemption in 2018 under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act 2012, recognising the project’s importance for Afghanistan. However, the exemption was revoked in September 2025, before being conditionally extended until April 26, 2026 following bilateral discussions.
The Indian government had earlier informed Parliament that it continues to engage with all stakeholders to address the implications of the waiver’s expiry.
Officials indicated that further developments will depend on the outcome of ongoing diplomatic engagements and the broader geopolitical situation in the region.