Sun Jun 22 04:13:24 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewrite as a news article:

**Summary:**

Amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, including attacks and threats of Strait of Hormuz closure, India is significantly increasing its reliance on Russian oil imports, exceeding combined volumes from traditional Middle Eastern suppliers. This shift is driven by the availability of discounted Russian crude and a strategic effort to diversify supply sources. While concerns exist about disruptions to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, analysts believe a full blockade is unlikely. India is also increasing imports from the US and developing alternative sourcing strategies, including using its strategic reserves, to ensure energy security.

**News Article:**

**India Doubles Down on Russian Oil Amid Middle East Conflict, Diversifies Supply Chain**

**New Delhi -** As tensions flare in the Middle East following attacks between Israel and Iran, India has dramatically increased its imports of Russian crude oil, surpassing the combined volumes from traditional suppliers like Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Data released by Kpler, a global trade analytics firm, indicates that Indian refiners are projected to import between 2 and 2.2 million barrels per day of Russian oil in June – the highest level in two years.

The shift comes amid heightened concerns about the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas shipments. Iran has threatened to close the Strait in response to the escalating conflict, raising fears of significant supply disruptions and price spikes.

“Shipowners are hesitant to send empty tankers into the Gulf,” said Sumit Ritolia, Lead Research Analyst, Refining & Modeling at Kpler. “This suggests that current Middle East Gulf supplies are likely to tighten in the near term, potentially triggering future adjustments in India’s sourcing strategy.”

While a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is considered unlikely due to international repercussions and Iran’s own reliance on the waterway for exports, India is actively diversifying its energy supply chain. Imports from the United States have also seen a substantial increase, reaching 439,000 barrels per day in June.

“India’s import strategy has evolved significantly over the past two years,” Ritolia explained. “Russian oil is logistically detached from Hormuz… Indian refiners have built refining and payment flexibility, while optimizing runs for a wider crude slate.”

India is also exploring alternative supply routes and considering tapping into its strategic oil reserves to mitigate any potential disruptions. This diversified approach reflects a growing emphasis on energy security amidst a volatile geopolitical landscape.

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