India's Role as a Lifeline for Maldives and Bangladesh Amidst Crisis

As the Maldives and Bangladesh face a fuel crisis due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, both nations are turning to India for assistance. Once adversaries, they are now seeking India's support in a time of need. This article delves into the shifting dynamics of their relationships, India's role as a major fuel supplier, and the historical context of their rivalry. Discover how India's 'Neighborhood First' policy is at play as it navigates its own challenges while extending help to its neighbors.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 3, 2026, 12:41 IST

The Changing Dynamics of Friendship and Rivalry

The world is often described as cyclical, where relationships can shift from friendship to enmity and back again. This is evident in the evolving ties between the Maldives and Bangladesh, which were once allies, then adversaries, and are now rekindling their friendship. The irony of seeking help from those once scorned is highlighted by the current situation of these two nations, which had previously shown hostility towards India. Now, facing challenges, they are reaching out for assistance. The ongoing conflict involving Iran has prompted both countries to turn to India for fuel supplies, as they find themselves in a precarious position.

According to a spokesperson from India's Ministry of External Affairs, Maldives has requested fuel supplies from India, which has been consistently providing fuel to its neighboring countries. India, being the fourth-largest refiner globally, has been supplying fuel to Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka under commercial agreements. Maldives has made requests for both short-term and long-term petroleum products, and India is currently assessing its capacity to fulfill these demands, indicating that while aid is being sent to Bangladesh, Maldives' request is under consideration.

The Maldives is facing a crisis primarily because it usually imports most of its fuel from Oman. The ongoing conflict between Iran and the U.S. has disrupted oil and petroleum product shipments from West Asia. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for oil transport, has been closed due to the conflict, halting fuel supplies to the Maldives. This blockade poses a significant challenge for the small island nation, and Bangladesh is similarly affected, prompting its request for fuel from India.

It's important to note that India is a major player in the global refining industry, already supplying oil to Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. Recently, India sent 38,000 tons of petroleum to Sri Lanka, and diesel shipments are reaching Bangladesh via pipeline. In light of Maldives' new request, India is contemplating its response. Despite the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, India has successfully dispatched six LPG carriers from the Gulf region and has received several oil tankers.

The historical context of rivalry between Bangladesh and Maldives adds an interesting layer to this situation. Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu had previously advocated for an 'India Out' policy and sought closer ties with China, while Bangladesh also engaged in similar rhetoric against India under the leadership of Yunus. Both nations had believed they could thrive without India's support. However, in times of crisis, they have turned back to India for assistance.

India's reputation as a supportive neighbor is well-established. Whether in the context of the Ukraine conflict or the Israel-Palestine situation, India has consistently stepped in to assist its neighbors. Now, as the Iran conflict escalates, India has not turned its back on its former friends despite their past hostilities. While India is currently aiding Bangladesh, it has not dismissed Maldives' request, evaluating its capacity to help based on its own needs. This reflects India's 'Neighborhood First' policy, although it is worth noting that India is also facing challenges, with 18 oil and gas vessels still stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations are ongoing with Iran to ensure the safe passage of these tankers, yet India remains committed to supporting its neighbors.