Iran accelerates oil exports from Kharg Island amid fears of Israeli strikes

Iran has significantly ramped up its crude oil exports since the outbreak of the Israel‑Iran conflict, loading over 2.2 million barrels per day from Kharg Island and rapidly dispatching tankers to avoid potential Israeli or U.S. strikes, according to satellite imagery and data from Bloomberg and Reuters.

Satellite photos show the oil storage tanks on Kharg filling to capacity and vessels loading one after another at a single jetty on the island’s eastern side. Analysts describe this as a deliberate strategy to clear storage onshore and maintain supply to major buyers, especially China.

Tracking firms report Iran has also moved part of its floating storage (about 8 million barrels) closer to Chinese ports, such as in Singapore and the Persian Gulf, ensuring continued market presence amid rising tensions.

Despite regional missile strikes and drone attacks targeting Iran, Kharg Island continues operations, with oil exports remaining stable at around 1.7 million barrels per day so far in 2025, a five‑week peak for loadings.

The export surge comes as Iran prepares for possible escalation. Analysts warn that any disruption—such as a strike on Kharg or a closure of the Strait of Hormuz—could send oil prices soaring to $75–$100+ per barrel, according to Citi and other financial forecasts.

Iran’s accelerated export strategy aims to pre‑empt potential choke points and preserve vital revenue streams in a climate of militarized uncertainty.