Abstract
The Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) gas pipeline, also known as the "Peace Pipeline," represents one of the strategic energy diplomacy projects in South Asia. It aims to foster mutual economic dependence, strengthen regional convergence, and enhance economic, political, and social security in South Asia and the Persian Gulf. Despite its potential benefits, the pipeline has yet to materialize due to numerous obstacles. This study examines the primary factors influencing the project's implementation and its political-economic dimensions. The research hypothesizes that critical challenges include political and military disputes between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir region, security threats posed by anti-modern religious factions in Pakistan's Balochistan region, U.S. pressure on India and Pakistan to abandon the project in favor of the TAPI pipeline, and the lack of synergy among gas-exporting countries in Central Asia and the Persian Gulf. Using a descriptive-analytical approach and documentary data, the study explores the economic and geopolitical challenges hindering the pipeline's completion.
Keywords: Peace Pipeline, Political Economy, Iran, India, Pakistan, Economic Dependence.
Introduction
Energy security, defined as a continuous and affordable energy supply, plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and regional conflicts. As countries strive to secure reliable energy sources, the geopolitical and economic significance of energy trade becomes increasingly apparent. Iran, with its abundant hydrocarbon reserves and strategic position at the crossroads of major energy markets, is uniquely positioned to act as a key player in regional energy cooperation. The Peace Pipeline, envisioned as a critical project to connect Iran’s gas reserves to South Asia’s rapidly growing energy markets, was designed to promote economic interdependence and foster regional stability. Despite its ambitious goals, the project has faced significant setbacks, including geopolitical tensions, security risks along the pipeline route, and economic disagreements. Nearly three decades since its inception, the pipeline remains unrealized. This paper explores the political and economic variables that have hindered its progress and evaluates its prospects.
 
Materials and Methods
This research employs a descriptive-analytical methodology, relying on documentary and library resources. The study analyzes data from academic articles, books, and credible reports to identify the economic and geopolitical factors influencing the Peace Pipeline project. Comparative analysis with similar energy projects in the region further contextualizes the findings.
 
Discussion and Results
The findings reveal several interrelated challenges:
1. Political and Military Disputes: The long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir has significantly delayed the project. The lack of trust between the two nations and concerns over pipeline security in Balochistan have further complicated negotiations.
2. Security Concerns: the route through Pakistan's Balochistan region faces threats from militant groups, raising doubts about the pipeline's operational safety.
3. U.S. Influence and Pressure: The U.S. has consistently discouraged India and Pakistan from cooperating with Iran, instead promoting the TAPI pipeline as a competing project. These pressures, combined with international sanctions on Iran, have hindered progress.
4. Economic and Pricing Disputes: Disagreements over gas pricing and transit fees have created further obstacles. Iran's initial pricing proposals were considered too high by India and Pakistan, necessitating prolonged negotiations.
5. Lack of Regional Coordination: The absence of effective collaboration among gas-exporting countries in Central Asia and the Persian Gulf has impeded efforts to build a cohesive energy network.
 
Conclusion
The Peace Pipeline remains a highly promising but unrealized project with the potential to revolutionize regional energy dynamics and enhance economic cooperation between Iran, Pakistan, and India. However, its successful implementation depends on resolving critical geopolitical issues, such as the Kashmir conflict and the resulting mistrust between India and Pakistan. Security concerns, particularly in Pakistan's Balochistan region, must also be addressed through enhanced regional cooperation. External pressures, especially from the U.S., remain a significant obstacle, alongside economic challenges such as pricing disputes and financing. Despite these hurdles, the project could play a pivotal role in meeting South Asia’s growing energy demands and strengthening Iran’s position as a major energy exporter. Iran’s recent accession to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and evolving regional dynamics, including China’s Belt and Road Initiative, provide new opportunities to revive the pipeline. With strategic collaboration and conflict resolution, the Peace Pipeline could become a cornerstone of regional stability and prosperity.