NEW DELHI: India has confirmed that the Shahid Beheshti terminal at Iran’s Chabahar Port, operated by India Ports Global Limited (IPGL), was not damaged during recent US strikes on the strategic maritime facility.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that while reports emerged about attacks on Chabahar Port, the terminal managed by India remained safe and fully unaffected. The clarification followed military strikes by the United States on the port as part of its operations against Iran.
According to the MEA, the damage was limited to the Shahid Kalantari terminal, which is separate from the Shahid Beheshti terminal operated by India under a long term agreement with Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organisation.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India was aware of reports regarding the strikes but confirmed that the country’s operations at Chabahar had not been impacted. He also reiterated India’s consistent position that civilian infrastructure should not be targeted during armed conflicts.
The Shahid Beheshti terminal is operated by India Ports Global Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone, under a renewable 10 year agreement signed with Iranian authorities.
Chabahar Port remains strategically significant for India as it provides direct access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing Pakistan, which does not permit the transit of Indian goods through its territory. The port also serves as a key link in the International North South Transport Corridor, a major trade network connecting India with Iran, Russia, Europe and parts of Central Asia.
The MEA also noted that India has been holding discussions with relevant stakeholders following the expiry of the US sanctions waiver that had earlier permitted certain activities at Chabahar. The government said consultations are continuing to determine the way forward for the project.
The confirmation that India’s terminal remains unharmed is expected to reassure stakeholders, as Chabahar continues to play a crucial role in India’s regional connectivity, trade and strategic outreach initiatives.
