India has resumed purchasing crude oil from Iran amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East that have disrupted global energy supplies, particularly through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, the government confirmed on Saturday.
According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Indian refiners have secured adequate crude supplies, including shipments from Iran, to counter disruptions caused by the regional conflict.
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India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and consumer, had not received any oil cargo from Iran since May 2019. Imports were halted following pressure from the United States, which had imposed sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear programme.
However, the current instability in the Middle East has impacted supply chains, prompting Indian refiners to diversify sourcing options. “Amid Middle East supply disruptions, Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements, including from Iran; and there is no payment hurdle for Iranian crude imports,” the ministry stated in a post on X.
The move signals a significant shift in India’s energy procurement strategy as it seeks to safeguard domestic fuel needs against geopolitical uncertainties. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a substantial portion of the world’s oil supply passes, has been particularly affected, raising concerns over supply security and price volatility.
Experts suggest that India’s decision reflects a pragmatic approach to energy security, prioritising stable supply over geopolitical pressures as global markets remain volatile.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
