India to Prioritize India-Middle East-Europe Corridor Amid US-Israel Attack on Iran

India's Connectivity Strategy Under Scrutiny as US-Israel Attack on Iran Increases Sanctions Risks

Key Developments

• India is likely to recalibrate its connectivity strategy and increase focus on the India–Middle East–Europe Corridor (IMEC) due to heightened sanctions risks on Chabahar Port following the US-Israel military attack on Iran.
• Despite increased uncertainty, India is unlikely to abandon its interests in Chabahar, which serves as a critical gateway to Central Asia and Russia.

IMEC to Gain Greater Policy Attention

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• India is already attempting to build up IMEC, which does not depend on Iranian territory, and may receive increased policy thrust as a relatively less exposed corridor.
• IMEC aims to link India to Europe through a network of shipping routes, rail corridors, and logistics infrastructure passing through the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel.

Chabahar's Long-term Relevance

• Chabahar holds long-term strategic value for India's industrial ambitions, particularly for access to Central Asia and mineral resources.
• The port is a critical entry point for India's supply chains, especially for semiconductors and other strategic sectors.

Balancing Sanctions Risks and Regional Instability

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• The coming weeks will test India's ability to balance sanctions risks, regional instability, and its ambitions to build resilient trade corridors across West and Central Asia.
• Despite challenges, India is unlikely to abandon Chabahar, ensuring its long-term relevance for access to Central Asia and mineral resources.