The US and Israel have attacked the island of Kharg, which is Iran’s main oil export hub.
The Iranian island of Khark has come under several attacks, according to state media reports. According to the Mehr news agency, the strikes on the island were carried out by the US and Israel.
The U.S. military struck military targets on the Iranian island of Kharg, the Axios news agency reported on Tuesday, citing an anonymous senior U.S. official. The strike on Kharg Island targeted air defense systems, not oil facilities.
According to Fox News, bunkers and ammunition depots on Kharg Island were also attacked. The U.S. Air Force has launched strikes on airports in Iran.
Why the Island is Important
Hark (Harg) Island in the Persian Gulf is a key strategic asset for Iran, as more than 90% of the country’s crude oil exports pass through its oil terminals, providing the country’s primary source of foreign exchange. It has deep-water access for servicing large tankers and is connected to the Abuzar, Fozan, and Dorod oil fields, making it a central element of the oil infrastructure. The island’s significance extends beyond the economy, as it also serves logistical and military functions and impacts the safety of shipping in the region, and its infrastructure is guarded by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps with restricted access.
Recent developments in the war in Iran
These events took place against the backdrop of statements by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which warned neighbouring countries of a change in stance. The statement noted that the period of restraint had ended and that Iran was ready to attack the infrastructure of the US and its partners, as well as to disrupt oil and gas supplies in the region for years to come.
Meanwhile, on the eve of the deadline set by Donald Trump for the resumption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has set out its conditions for negotiations with the US.
According to a senior source, Tehran is demanding an immediate halt to strikes, guarantees that they will not be repeated, and compensation for the damage caused.
The source also noted that Iran rejects any temporary ceasefire with the United States.
Furthermore, in the event of a long-term peace agreement, Iran insists on the right to set a fee for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The amount of the fees, according to the source, should depend on the type of vessel, its cargo and current conditions.
