Trump's Iran Tariffs Expose Limits of US-India Strategic Convergence

• US Ambassador Sergio Gor's diplomatic rhetoric in New Delhi was immediately contradicted by Trump's announcement of 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran.
• India's relationship with Iran is crucial for its infrastructure, logistics, and energy security, including the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
• Trump's tariffs create uncertainty for India's nearly $500 million investment in Chabahar Port, a vital gateway bypassing Pakistan to Afghanistan and Central Asia.
• The US Treasury's temporary reprieve for Chabahar until April 2026 highlights the volatility of US foreign policy, making strategic projects vulnerable to executive orders.
• India is actively pursuing an India-EU FTA and deepening ties with Europe to diversify partnerships and reduce vulnerability to unilateral US coercion.

Why It Matters: Trump's unilateral Iran tariffs reveal a transactional US approach, undermining India's strategic interests and forcing diversification.