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New Delhi explores legal safeguards with Iran to retain strategic foothold amid China concerns.

India Works on Plan to Secure Chabahar Port After US Sanctions Waiver Ends.

India is formulating a contingency strategy to safeguard its strategic interests in Iran’s Chabahar Port after the US sanctions waiver expires in April. India Ports Global Limited (IPGL), which has been operating the port since 2024 under a 10-year agreement with Iran, may enter into a temporary arrangement with a local Iranian entity to manage operations during the sanctions period. This arrangement would include a legally binding guarantee ensuring that management rights revert to India once sanctions are lifted. New Delhi is seeking formal legal sanctity from the Iranian government to protect India’s long-term role at the port. The issue was expected to feature prominently during Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi’s postponed visit to India. Strategic experts warn that China could attempt to gain a foothold at Chabahar if India’s presence weakens, posing security concerns. Chabahar is a vital gateway for Afghanistan, Central Asia, and parts of Russia, providing critical access to the Indian Ocean and global markets.