New Delhi, July 18: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified on Friday that the Chabahar Port terminal, developed by India in Iran, has not suffered any damage from recent US airstrikes.
During a press briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the government is aware of reports regarding these airstrikes. However, he assured that the Chabahar Port terminal is completely secure and has not been impacted.
When asked about the US military targeting Chabahar and the potential effects on the port’s operations, Jaiswal responded, “If you are looking at this matter concerning Chabahar, it is important to note that the US had previously granted a waiver. That waiver expired some time ago. Since then, we have been in discussions with relevant parties on how to proceed. Regarding the attacks, we have also seen such reports, but we can confirm that the Chabahar terminal has not been damaged in any way.”
Earlier on Friday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth shared an image on social media showing a tower collapsing amid ongoing airstrikes. However, he did not specify the location of the image.
Last October, India received a six-month waiver from US sanctions related to the Chabahar Port, which was set to expire on April 29.
In May, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi described Chabahar Port as a symbol of cooperation between India and Iran. He expressed confidence that this port, developed by India, would serve as a “golden gateway” to Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe.
Speaking to the media after a meeting of BRICS foreign ministers in New Delhi, Araghchi acknowledged that the development of Chabahar Port has slowed due to US sanctions. However, he remained optimistic that India would continue its work on this strategic port.
He stated, “Chabahar Port is one of the most significant identifiers of India-Iran cooperation. We are pleased that India has played a crucial role in its development. Although the pace has slowed due to US sanctions, I am confident that this port will provide India with a golden route to Central Asia, the Caucasus, and eventually Europe. Additionally, it will serve as an important route for Europe, Central Asia, and other countries to access the Indian Ocean.”
Seyyed Abbas Araghchi emphasized, “This port is strategically vital for us, for India, and for many other countries. I hope India continues its work at Chabahar Port to ensure its full development and to meet the interests of India and neighboring nations.”
India enjoys a positive image globally and can play a significant role in promoting diplomacy, peace, and security in the region. India has good relations with almost all countries on both sides of the Persian Gulf. Therefore, we welcome any positive and constructive role India plays in this region.”
Previously, India and Iran had signed a 10-year agreement for the operation of Chabahar Port. Under this agreement, India pledged a credit facility of $250 million for the development of infrastructure at this strategic port located in the Gulf of Oman.
India and Iran also planned to connect Chabahar Port to Iran’s railway network, which involved constructing a railway line approximately 700 kilometers long from Chabahar to the city of Zahedan.
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