US Warns India: Trade Cooperation with the Islamic Republic Will Lead to Sanctions

On Monday, the Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department emphasized that US sanctions against the Islamic Republic remain in effect and are being enforced. Vedant Patel stated in his daily press conference, "Those who engage in trade with Iran should remember that they are exposing themselves to sanctions." He made these remarks in response to recent media reports about a contract between India and the Islamic Republic for the development of the Chabahar port in southern Iran. According to the English-language newspaper 'Hindu' published in New Delhi, this 10-year contract follows a cooperation agreement signed between Tehran and New Delhi about 9 years ago. The Indian side is set to invest the equivalent of $120 million in Chabahar's infrastructure and has indicated it will consider up to $250 million in credit for future projects. India has stated that its goal in utilizing the Chabahar port is humanitarian aid and regional development, beyond financial interests. This port serves as a connection for India to Afghanistan and Central Asia, allowing it to compete with Pakistan's Gwadar port or China's Belt and Road Initiative. Geeta Aryan, a senior reporter for the Persian section of Voice of America, has primarily focused on foreign policy news. She began her journalism career in 1987 with radio and joined Voice of America in 2004. India signs a 10-year contract for managing Chabahar port. India has advised its citizens to be 'cautious' when traveling to Iran and Israel. Temporary closure of the Dutch embassy and the consular section and visa of the German embassy in Tehran. Extensive deployment of Indian naval ships near the Red Sea to combat piracy.