US airstrikes target Iran’s Kharg Island, sparing oil exports amid escalating tensions

Tehran — On the fifteenth day of the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, military tensions heightened as American forces launched airstrikes on Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export terminal. The strikes, carried out on the night of March 13, were described by Washington as targeting military facilities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy.

According to details provided by US officials, the airstrikes hit several strategic locations on the island, including a short airstrip, air defence positions, docks associated with the Joushan naval base, a control tower, and helicopter hangars. Iranian state media confirmed that some damage occurred but reported that air defence systems were restored shortly after the attack. The Iranian reports also emphasized that the island’s vital oil export infrastructure was deliberately left untouched.

Subsequent reports on Saturday afternoon indicated that oil exports from Kharg Island continued without disruption. At least two vessels were reported to have docked at the terminal for loading operations, suggesting that the strikes did not impact Iran’s oil export activities.

US President Donald Trump described the recent military actions as part of a broader strategy to deter Iranian aggression and to send a clear message regarding the United States’ commitment to regional security. Meanwhile, Iran and its regional allies increased pressure across multiple fronts, including the Gulf, Iraq, and Lebanon, in response to the ongoing hostilities.

The escalation follows a series of confrontations and strategic manoeuvres between the US, Israel, and Iran, with both sides intensifying their military and diplomatic efforts. The targeting of Kharg Island, a critical node in Iran’s energy sector, marks a significant development in the conflict, though the decision to spare oil infrastructure appears aimed at avoiding further disruption to global energy markets.

As the situation continues to evolve, both sides have signalled their intent to maintain pressure, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.