Following India’s signing of a 10-year contract to operate Iran’s Chabahar port, the US issued a warning that its sanctions on Iran remain in effect, cautioning “anyone” considering business deals with Iran to be mindful of the potential risks involved. The State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson, Vedant Patel, emphasized the need for entities engaging in business with Iran to be aware of the possible repercussions of sanctions.

During the department’s daily press briefing on Monday, Patel stated, “We are aware of these reports that Iran and India have signed a deal concerning the Chabahar Port.” However, he refrained from commenting on India’s foreign policy goals and bilateral relationship with Iran, deferring to the Indian government to address those aspects.

The agreement for the Long-Term Bilateral Contract for the operation of Chabahar Port was formalized on Monday between Indian Ports Global Limited (IPGL) and the Port & Maritime Organisation (PMO) of Iran. Despite the deal, Patel underscored that the US sanctions on Iran remain in place and will be strictly enforced, refusing to grant New Delhi an exemption for this agreement.

In light of these developments, the warning from the US serves as a reminder of the complexities and potential consequences associated with engaging in business dealings with Iran amid the ongoing sanctions imposed by the United States. The signing of the Chabahar port deal has sparked attention and raised questions about the broader implications for the parties involved in this strategic partnership.