Iran has resumed crude oil loading operations at Kharg Island, its main oil export terminal, after nearly six weeks of disruption following the lifting of a US naval blockade.
According to available data, three very large crude carriers (VLCCs) are currently stationed at the Sea Island terminal. Each vessel can transport up to two million barrels of crude oil. Satellite imagery shows that two of the tankers are already docked at the jetty, while a third is approaching the terminal.
European Union satellite images indicate that the jetties remained empty until Friday, with no large tankers seen at the facility since May.
Analysts say Iran moved quickly to restart exports and reactivate its oil supply network after a temporary agreement with the United States helped ease regional tensions. Reports also suggest that tankers anchored near Chabahar port have transported around 20 million barrels of oil during the disruption.
Despite continued security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has gradually reopened access for commercial vessels entering the Persian Gulf.
According to shipping data, three oil tankers—Stream, Impala and Lauren 2—have recently entered the Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz.
Kharg Island handles about 90 percent of Iran’s crude oil exports, making it the country’s most important oil export hub.
Analysts estimate that at least 20 additional tankers are waiting in the eastern Gulf, which could further boost Iran’s oil exports in the coming days.
