The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday that India is closely watching the fast-developing situation in Iran and assured that it will take all necessary measures for the welfare of Indians.

While addressing a weekly media briefing in New Delhi on

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

On January 5, India advised its nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Iran until further notice, owing to the recent developments in the country. Furthermore, it asked Indian nationals living in Iran on resident-visas to register with the Indian Embassy, if they had not done it already.

When asked about reports claiming that India has exited Chabahar Port project, Jaiswal stated, “On 28 October, 2025, as you are aware, the US Department of Treasury had issued a letter outlining the guidance on the conditional sanctions waiver which is valid till 26th April, 2026. We remain engaged with the US side in working out this arrangement.”

Last year, the US extended a six-month sanctions waiver for India to continue its operations at the Chabahar port, effective from October 29.

In 2024, India and Iran signed a 10-year agreement to develop the Shahid Beheshti terminal. However, the US Secretary of State revoked the sanctions exception issued in 2018 under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act (IFCA) for Afghanistan reconstruction assistance and economic development, effective September 29.

The revocation rendered those operating the Chabahar Port or engaged in other activities attracting US sanctions. However, India continues to develop and operate the terminal at least till April without facing punitive sanctions from Washington. The port is crucial for India’s access to Afghanistan and Central Asia, allowing it to bypass Pakistan for trade and connectivity.