India, April 5 -- India has resumed buying crude oil from Iran for the first time since 2019, as escalating tensions in the Middle East disrupt supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The world's third-largest oil importer had halted Iranian purchases under U.S. pressure, but recent supply shocks have forced refiners to diversify sourcing.

Government confirms supplies secured

In a statement posted on X, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said Indian refiners have secured adequate crude supplies, including shipments from Iran.

"Amid Middle East supply disruptions, Indian refiners have secured their crude oil requirements, including from Iran; and there is no payment hurdle," the ministry said.

US sanctions relief opens door...