New Delhi, September 23,  2026

US President Donald Trump has placed renewed focus on energy connectivity in the Middle East, linking recent disruptions to commercial shipping with the need for alternative routes. His remarks also highlighted Washington’s support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as part of efforts to strengthen regional energy infrastructure.

Speaking about the changing energy landscape in the region, Trump said recent attacks had demonstrated the need to reduce reliance on routes vulnerable to Iranian checkpoints. He pointed to pipelines and other infrastructure as possible ways to facilitate the movement of oil.

Trump said, "...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. Together, we're on the verge of overcoming challenges that have plagued this region for decades..."

Trump’s comments bring energy transportation and regional connectivity into focus, with IMEC being cited as one of the corridors supported by his administration. The proposed route is intended to strengthen links between India, the Middle East and Europe through expanded infrastructure and trade connectivity.

His remarks come as energy security and alternative transportation routes remain important issues for the wider region. The emphasis on new infrastructure reflects the broader push to create additional pathways for the movement of energy and goods.