US Naval Blockade Halts Iran's Oil Exports Through Kharg Terminal

The US naval blockade has severely disrupted Iran's crude oil exports, with no tankers reportedly loading at the country's main export terminal on Kharg Island for at least a week. The disruption is particularly significant as Kharg accounts for around 90% of Iran's crude oil exports.

Shipping and satellite data indicate that there has been no loading activity at Kharg since July 31. Maritime intelligence firm Windward noted that all three of the terminal's loading berths had remained vacant for an extended period.

Richard Bronze, Energy Aspects, commented, 'The blockade is effective, in the sense that there is not a lot of tanker movement in or out.' The disruption could lead to Iran cutting oil production if storage facilities approach capacity. The country continues to receive revenue from oil cargoes that departed during the ceasefire and are still being delivered to buyers in Asia.