Geopolitical Challenges to India's Energy Security amid the Israel-Iran War and the Hormuz Crisis
Heer Singh Rajput
Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Shri Sitaram Jaju Govt Girls PG College, Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, India
The Israel Iran War and the Strait of Hormuz crisis have emerged as major geopolitical developments with significant implications for global energy security and international trade. Nearly one fifth of the world's oil consumption and about one fifth of global liquefied natural gas trade pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making it one of the most strategic maritime chokepoints. This paper examines the geopolitical implications of the Israel-Iran conflict and the Strait of Hormuz crisis, analyzing their impact on global energy markets and India's energy security. The paper discusses the strategic importance of the Hormuz chokepoint, through which approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas trade passes, and discusses how regional instability has heightened supply chain vulnerabilities, increased transportation costs, and driven crude oil price volatility. The study emphasizes India's significant dependence on Gulf region imports and the vulnerabilities arising from reliance on a critical maritime route. It explores India’s diplomatic, strategic, and economic responses, including diversifying energy sources, expanding strategic petroleum reserves, strengthening regional partnerships, and accelerating renewable energy deployment. The paper concludes that sustained diplomatic engagement, supply diversification, and investment in clean energy are essential for enhancing India's long-term energy resilience amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Keywords: Energy Security, Israel Iran War, Strait of Hormuz, Geopolitics.
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