The orphan pearl of Kharg and Iran’s oil industry

Kharg Island, located in the Persian Gulf, serves as Iran’s primary oil export hub, processing 90 percent of the nation’s oil shipments. Spanning 22 square kilometers, the island is heavily guarded and known as the “Forbidden Island.” Its strategic location allows supertankers to dock safely, facilitating the export of approximately 950 million barrels annually, primarily to Asian markets. Historically significant, Kharg has evolved from a colonial prize to a vital component of Iran’s modern energy infrastructure since the late 20th century.

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