International Relations

PM Modi urges West Asia stability and freedom of navigation at BRICS bilaterals

12 September 2026UPSCSSC

In Brief

Emphasized protecting seafarers and freedom of navigation during talks with Iranian President Pezeshkian.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during the BRICS Summit in Delhi, focusing on regional stability in West Asia and maritime security. PM Modi highlighted the necessity of maintaining freedom of navigation in international waters and safeguarding Indian seafarers navigating high-risk trade corridors.

The West Asian region has seen heightened maritime security threats around the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, Red Sea, and Persian Gulf, impacting global supply chains and commercial maritime traffic. The seizure of strategic points such as Perim Island and attacks along vital energy transport lines have raised international freight rates and transit risks.

In addition to maritime security, discussions addressed the operation of the Chabahar Port in Iran, in which India holds long-term operating rights via India Ports Global Limited to facilitate access to Central Asian and Eurasian markets via the INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor).

UPSC Study NotesHIGHGS2 — International Relations & Geopolitics

GS2 — International Relations & Geopolitics

📌 Exam Angle

Prelims: Expect MCQs on Bab-el-Mandeb Strait threats, Chabahar Port's strategic role, or INSTC corridor benefits. Mains: Essay/detailed answers on India's maritime security interests in West Asia, balancing Iran relations while protecting sea lanes, and alternative trade routes bypassing Strait of Hormuz chokepoints.

⚠️ Key Concerns

Growing Houthi attacks in Red Sea threaten India's crucial maritime trade routes and increase shipping costs. India must navigate complex geopolitical dynamics—maintaining Iran ties while ensuring freedom of navigation against non-state actors. Chabahar Port's viability depends on regional stability, yet Western sanctions and Iranian constraints limit its full operationalization.

💡 Why It Matters

India's energy security and trade depend critically on West Asian maritime corridors; disruptions spike inflation and impact GDP growth. Chabahar Port and INSTC represent India's strategic pivot toward Central Asia, reducing dependence on Suez Canal routes and strengthening connectivity with Russia and Iran.

🔑 Must Remember

• Bab-el-Mandeb Strait is the second-largest global maritime chokepoint after Strait of Hormuz—40% of world's maritime trade transits here. • Chabahar Port enables India's access to Central Asian markets bypassing Pakistan, operationalized via India Ports Global Limited. • INSTC reduces shipping time to Russia/Europe by 40% compared to Suez routes.

📝 Key Terms

Bab-el-Mandeb StraitRed SeaChabahar PortINSTCStrait of Hormuzfreedom of navigationmaritime securityWest AsiaBRICSsupply chain disruption

PM Modi urges West Asia stability and freedom of navigation at BRICS bilaterals

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