Trump Backs India-Middle East Corridor Amid Iran Oil Route Concerns

US President Donald Trump has expressed his support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a proposed network of rail and maritime transport connecting India to the Gulf and Europe.

The corridor aims to provide an alternative route for energy and trade, amidst disruptions caused by the ongoing war in West Asia. Trump pointed out that attacks on commercial shipping have highlighted the need to shift Middle East energy infrastructure away from vulnerable routes.

During a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Arab leaders, Trump emphasized the importance of IMEC, stating, 'Iran's terrorist attacks on commercial shipping in neighboring countries have shown the need to shift Middle East energy infrastructure away from the Iranian checkpoints. That's why my administration strongly supports the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and other places in the form of getting oil out, whether it's pipelines or anything else.'

Unveiled in 2023, IMEC includes an Eastern Corridor linking India with the Gulf region and a Northern Corridor connecting the Gulf with Europe. The proposed network also involves road transport routes.