West Asia war: Is Trump exploring exit options out of Iran? Expert weighs in

As the West Asia conflict intensifies, US President Donald Trump signals a conditional ceasefire with Iran, demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz while simultaneously issuing threats. As Trump criticises European allies and threatens a US withdrawal from NATO, the economic repercussions ripple globally, with a significant impact on India. Former Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian warns of a potential stagflationary shock for the Indian economy, forecasting a GDP growth reduction and a surge in inflation. The Indian government is absorbing initial price shocks in petroleum and fertiliser, but the conflict's effects are tangible across the country. Supply chain disruptions are causing shortages of materials, delaying wheat procurement for farmers and impacting sectors from pharmaceuticals to semiconductors. Amidst fears of a global recession driven by surging oil prices, analysis also points to Iran's resilience despite crippling economic sanctions.