Today (March 14) it has been the 15th day since the war broke out between America, Israel and Iran on February 28, but the war still does not seem to be stopping. Both sides are targeting each other’s positions. Recently, the US targeted Kharg Island in Iran, although it left the energy plants there after giving a warning. This small island is considered very important for the economy of Iran. It is said that the safety or destruction of this island will decide whether the war will be contained in weeks or drag on for years.
Where is Kharg Island and why is it important for Iran?
Kharg Island is an important link in Iran’s oil network. Its distance from the coast of Iran is about 16 kilometers and from the Strait of Hormuz is about 483 kilometers. The country’s oil exports are managed from the main terminal located here. About 90 percent of Iran’s oil shipments go through this terminal. There is sufficient oil storage on this island. From here, pipelines are connected to Iran’s major oil and gas fields via sea.
What effect will the attack on Kharg have on Iran?
this island iran Plays an important role in the oil network. If Kharg Island remains safe, Iran will have enough resources to prolong the war. The income from oil sales will help Iran supply arms and maintain domestic stability. Also, due to continued supply, Iran will have the card to influence global oil prices, through which it can make diplomatic deals. Even during the war of the 1980s, Iran had shown the ability to restore exports from here despite heavy losses.
How can the war end soon?
There itself, war The argument against delaying the decision is that if this island is destroyed, it will be a big blow to Iran. His oil income may be very less. It has limited alternative terminals i.e. other ports have less capacity. Apart from this, economic pressure will increase due to stoppage of oil exports, due to which it may be difficult for Iran to prolong the war. Also, if the global energy market is affected, big powers can put pressure on stopping the war quickly.
Also read – US War: Trump in a mood to cross the Strait of Hormuz, openly threatened Iran, said- ‘This path will open…’