Iran Restarts Kharg Island Crude Oil Exports After US Sanctions Eased

Iran has resumed crude oil loading operations from its main export terminal on Kharg Island, following a nearly six-week hiatus after the lifting of US restrictions on Iranian ports. Vessel tracking data indicates three very large crude carriers (VLCCs) are currently moored at the Sea Island terminal, west of Kharg Island, each capable of transporting approximately two million barrels of crude oil. The resumption signals Tehran's renewed efforts to reactivate oil exports, attributed to evolving relations with Washington and a temporary agreement that eased some restrictions, opening supply routes. Satellite observations on Saturday revealed two of the three tankers had arrived at berths, with the third approaching. In contrast, images taken on Friday showed the berths to be empty. Since May 6, only one VLCC had been sighted at the island's facilities in satellite imagery covering 27 of 44 days. Despite global shipping companies' continued caution regarding the Strait of Hormuz due to security concerns, Iran transported approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil using tankers waiting off Chabahar port near Pakistan's border. Iranian authorities also facilitated empty tankers' entry into the Gulf for loading, including the "Stream," "Empalase," and "Loren 2," currently at Kharg Island after transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday. Kharg Island is considered a vital hub for Iranian oil exports, with approximately 90% of the country's exported crude shipments passing through its facilities. Some tankers, stationary near the island for weeks, have begun moving towards the Strait of Hormuz; VLCCs were observed nearing Lavan Island in the southern Gulf after recently departing Kharg. With over 20 tankers of various sizes anchored east of Kharg Island, Iran appears to possess substantial additional crude oil inventory ready for shipment and export from the Gulf.