The escalation of military operations between the US-Israel alliance and Iran has triggered an immediate crisis for Indian exporters. Major shipments of Basmati rice, tea, and fruits destined for Africa and West Asia are currently at a standstill. According to FIEO, vessels are now forced to bypass the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz, opting for the longer Cape of Good Hope route. This shift adds 15–20 days to transit times, causing freight rates to skyrocket and putting significant pressure on the Indian rupee against the dollar.