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India has resumed crude oil purchases from Iran for the first time in seven years, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global energy flows and push countries to secure alternative supply routes.
The move marks India’s first such step since 2019, when it halted imports after the United States' sanctions waivers were not renewed.
At the time, those waivers had allowed certain countries to continue limited purchases of Iranian oil despite sanctions.
Now, amid renewed instability, Indian authorities indicate that refiners have secured crude supplies from multiple sources, including Iran, without facing payment-related obstacles.
Officials emphasized that companies retain the flexibility to source oil globally based on commercial considerations, signaling a pragmatic approach as supply chains tighten.
India, one of the world’s largest energy consumers, imports crude oil from over 40 countries. Roughly half of its energy needs are met by supplies from the Middle East, underlining the region’s importance to its economy.
Authorities stated that the country’s crude requirements remain fully secured in the coming months, suggesting that the decision to resume Iranian imports is part of a broader strategy to maintain supply stability during a volatile period.
The shift also follows a temporary easing of U.S. restrictions, as Washington granted a 30-day waiver on Iranian oil purchases last month.
The resumption comes against the backdrop of escalating conflict involving Israel, Iran, and the United States. A joint U.S.-Israeli air offensive launched on Feb. 28 has led to significant casualties in Iran, including the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In response, Iran has carried out drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and several neighboring countries hosting U.S. military assets, including Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf states. These attacks have caused casualties, infrastructure damage, and growing instability across the region.
Particular attention has focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway through which a significant share of the world’s oil shipments passes.
Disruptions or threats in this area have amplified concerns over supply security, prompting major importers like India to diversify sourcing and act quickly to secure crude flows.
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