India’s LNG Imports Pivot to U.S. as Middle East Tensions Disrupt Fuel Supplies

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has severely disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, prompting a rapid realignment of India’s gas imports. In May, U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments to India reached 900,000 tons, accounting for more than 40 % of the country’s total LNG imports, while U.S. liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) deliveries hit 630,000 tons, surpassing the combined volume from Gulf producers by roughly 60 %. The shift gives the United States the status of India’s largest LNG and LPG supplier, a change driven by the need for reliable deliveries amid regional instability, even though U.S. gas is generally more expensive than Gulf supplies.

Amid the energy turmoil, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju publicly praised Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his remarks on India’s relatively stable fuel situation, describing him as a “sensible leader.” Rijiju urged political rivals to unite on national issues, highlighting the cross‑party appreciation during a period of heightened geopolitical risk.

Analysts note that while the pivot enhances India’s energy security by reducing dependence on a single region, higher import costs could pressure the Indian currency and affect household LPG pricing, prompting government subsidies or price controls.