The United States has extended by six months the sanctions waiver for Iran’s Chabahar Port, a crucial project developed by India to access Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan, the Indian government announced on Thursday.
The waiver, originally restored last month after being revoked in September, shields entities involved in the port’s operations from U.S. penalties under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act. Without it, companies operating at or supporting Chabahar could face U.S. sanctions.
Developed with Indian investment, the Chabahar Port serves as a vital trade and transit hub linking India to Afghanistan and beyond into Central Asia. Its continued operation has gained added significance as India’s engagement with the Taliban-led government in Kabul deepens.
Both sides have recently sought to expand economic cooperation, with the Taliban urging Pakistan to permit direct India–Afghanistan trade via land routes.
Analysts say the U.S. waiver reflects Washington’s recognition of Chabahar’s role in promoting regional stability and connectivity—particularly as an alternative to China-backed infrastructure corridors in the region.
