Trump Backs India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to Bypass Iran Energy Chokepoints
US President Donald Trump has strongly backed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, arguing that West Asia needs alternative energy and transport infrastructure that reduces dependence on routes vulnerable to disruption by Iran.
Trump Backs India-Middle East-Europe Corridor
Speaking during a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council and Arab leaders on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump said recent attacks on commercial shipping had demonstrated the need to diversify regional energy infrastructure.
He said his administration strongly supports the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, or IMEC, alongside new pipelines and other routes capable of transporting energy without relying heavily on vulnerable maritime chokepoints.
Trump linked the push to wider efforts to make West Asia more secure and economically resilient.
IMEC Connects India, Gulf and Europe
IMEC was unveiled in 2023 as a major connectivity initiative linking India with the Gulf and Europe.
The planned corridor includes an eastern section connecting India with Gulf countries through maritime links and a northern section connecting the Gulf to Europe through rail and shipping networks.
The project is intended to improve trade connectivity, reduce transport times and build more resilient supply chains between Asia, the Middle East and Europe.
Iran Conflict Highlights Energy Route Risks
Trump’s renewed support for IMEC comes amid continuing disruption to regional shipping and energy flows caused by the conflict involving Iran.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil and gas transit routes, making alternatives increasingly important for energy-importing economies.
Trump also repeated his warning to Tehran during the meeting while saying diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the conflict were continuing.
