WANA (Oct 30) – The United States has extended the sanctions waiver for Iran’s Chabahar Port following New Delhi’s diplomatic efforts, according to reports from Indian media.

 

The Economic Times reported that Washington has renewed the waiver until early next year, describing the port as vital to India’s regional connectivity strategy, serving as a key gateway to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and eastern Russia.

 

The previous waiver expired on Tuesday, but India secured an extension through early 2026, after weeks of consultations with U.S. officials. Earlier reports from the same outlet indicated that India had been pressing Washington to extend the exemption.

 

The Chabahar Port exemption was initially valid until October 28, following a prior U.S. deadline of September 29 for its expiration.

 

On May 13, 2024, India signed a 10-year agreement to operate Chabahar Port between Indian Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and the Ports and Maritime Organization of Iran. The port plays a strategic role in facilitating India’s trade with Afghanistan, delivering humanitarian aid, and expanding regional economic cooperation.

 

According to the Indian daily, the Taliban have also expressed interest in using Chabahar to enhance Afghanistan’s international trade links.

 

There are ongoing plans to integrate the port into the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) and link it with Central Asian countries. Uzbekistan, one of India’s regional partners, has voiced hope that New Delhi will resolve any remaining concerns regarding the port’s operation.

 

Reports also indicate that Russia aims to utilize the Chabahar route — via Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan — to facilitate trade with India and other parts of Asia.

Container Handling at Iranian Ports Surpasses One Million

Container Handling at Iranian Ports Surpasses One Million. Social media/ WANA News Agency