NEW DELHI — India announced Saturday it has resumed oil imports from Iran for the first time in seven years, as the ongoing Middle East conflict disrupts global energy supplies.The move marks India’s first public confirmation since 2019, when it halted Iranian oil purchases after US sanctions waivers expired.“Amid Middle East supply disruptions, Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements, including from Iran; and there is no payment hurdle for Iranian crude imports,” the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said on X.The ministry added that India sources crude oil from more than 40 countries, with companies maintaining flexibility to adjust supply based on commercial considerations.It said India’s crude oil needs remain fully secured for the coming months.Last month, the United States granted a 30-day waiver on sanctions related to Iranian oil purchases.India imports nearly 50% of its energy needs from the Middle East, valued at around $180 billion in 2024.The development comes as the conflict in the region continues to impact energy markets and shipping routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit point.
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