Iran rejects reports of oil leak near Kharg Island export hub

Iran’s Oil Terminals Company has rejected reports suggesting an oil spill near Kharg Island, following satellite images this week that appeared to show a large slick west of the country’s main oil export facility in the Gulf.

According to Iranian state media, the company said there was no evidence of any leakage after inspections were carried out across storage tanks, pipelines, loading infrastructure, and vessels operating near the island.

The company’s chief executive stated that technical checks did not indicate any breach or spill from oil facilities in the area.

He also said the Marine Emergency Mutual Aid Center (MEMAC), a regional organisation responsible for monitoring marine pollution, had not detected any signs of an oil leak in the waters around Kharg Island.

Following the initial reports, Iranian authorities conducted further field inspections and laboratory tests. The company said these additional checks also found no indication of pollution, adding that there was “not even the smallest trace” of any oil leakage.