Trump backs India-Middle East-Europe corridor as alternative to Iran-linked energy routes

US President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), presenting it as one option for shifting Middle Eastern energy infrastructure away from routes linked to Iran.

Speaking at a meeting with Gulf Cooperation Council and Arab leaders on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Trump pointed to attacks on commercial shipping as a reason for developing alternative energy routes.

"Iran's terrorist attacks on commercial shipping in neighbouring countries have shown the need to shift Middle East energy infrastructure away from the Iranian checkpoints," Trump said.

"That is why my administration strongly supports the India-Middle East Economic Corridor and other places to get oil out, whether it is pipeline or anything else. Together we are on the verge of overcoming challenges that have plagued this region for a decade," he added.

What is IMEC?

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor was unveiled in September 2023 during the G20 Summit in New Delhi. The initiative involves India, the US, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union.

The proposed network has an eastern section linking India with the Gulf and a northern section connecting the Gulf to Europe. Plans include rail and shipping links, along with energy and digital connectivity.

The project is intended to strengthen trade and connectivity between the three regions. It has also been discussed as an alternative connectivity route alongside existing maritime and road networks.

Hormuz disruption adds urgency

Trump's remarks come as the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the Iran conflict and global energy concerns. The strategic waterway is a major route for oil and gas shipments, making alternative transportation and energy infrastructure a key issue amid the ongoing fighting.

However, IMEC remains a planned infrastructure initiative, with its implementation affected by regional security conditions and the wider conflict.

Trump repeats warning to Iran

Alongside his support for alternative energy routes, Trump again issued a stark warning to Tehran.

"We've isolated Iran financially, and hopefully they'll do the right thing fast...There will be a time when it's too late, and we won't have the chance of letting them survive as a nation. I would like to see that, and I can tell you that people around this table would like to see it," he said.

Trump also referred to the US military's Operation Midnight Hammer, saying it had destroyed Iran's nuclear programme and left it under rubble.