India Resumes Iranian Oil Imports After 7 Years

India has restarted importing crude oil from Iran for the first time since 2019, as supply disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East have impacted global energy flows. The move comes after instability around the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel, which have tightened oil availability for major importers like India.

According to India’s oil ministry, domestic refiners have secured adequate crude supplies, including shipments from Iran, and are not facing any payment-related issues. This follows a temporary easing of U.S. sanctions on Iranian oil exports aimed at stabilizing global markets. India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, had halted purchases from Tehran in May 2019 under U.S. pressure.

In addition to crude, India has also imported 44,000 metric tons of Iranian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which recently arrived at the port of Mangalore Port. Officials emphasized that India sources oil from over 40 countries, allowing flexibility to adapt to market conditions and ensure energy security.

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