New Delhi : Tensions in the Middle East show no signs of abating. Amidst this, the US has imposed new sanctions on Iran, and India has also been caught in the net.

Expanding the scope of its economic measures against Iran, the Trump administration has imposed sanctions on four India-based companies and three Indian nationals. This move could introduce new strain into already tense US-India relations.

On Monday, the US State Department sanctioned the Indian customs brokerage firm Portease Partners LLP, accusing it of facilitating the import of multiple shipments of Iranian petrochemical products into India. Its partners, Indrismiya Ashrafmiya Shaikh and Harish Ramchandra Rangi (both Indian citizens), were also sanctioned.

The other three companies are:

• Sadashiv Overseas Limited (accused of importing Iranian petroleum products worth approximately $69 million between February 2024 and June 2025)
• PP Softtech Private Limited (approximately $25 million between January 2024 and June 2025)
• Prakritis Infra Impex India Private Limited (approximately $25 million between May 2023 and February 2026)

Prashant Garg, a director at PP Softtech, was also sanctioned. The total value of imports amounts to approximately $120 million; however, Washington’s message is clear: doing business with Iran is no longer merely a matter of complying with US sanctions on Iran. Foreign intermediaries, importers, brokers, shipping companies, and financial institutions can also find themselves in the crosshairs.

According to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, this campaign aims to sever Iran’s remaining financial lifelines. Sectors such as oil, petrochemical revenues, shipping, banking, technology, gold, aviation, and digital assets are being targeted. During this period, sanctions were imposed on approximately 60 entities, individuals, and vessels.

India has significantly scaled back its economic ties with Iran in recent years; however, the Chabahar Port (which provides India access to Afghanistan) and exports such as rice, tea, and medicines remain crucial. Disruptions to Dubai-based trade and financial transactions could lead to increased difficulties regarding payments and shipping.

According to analysts, relations already strained by tariffs and the Trump administration’s transactional approach could deteriorate further. Asia policy expert Evan Feigenbaum stated that these sanctions would impact US-India relations.

Report – Abhijit Tushar Bhatt (Political Editor)