Arabic version: جزيرة خارك: مركز النفط الإيراني ذو الإرث التاريخي الغني
Kharg Island, a 22-square-kilometre coral outcrop in Iran’s Bushehr province, is often referred to as the “orphan pearl of the Persian Gulf.” This isolated location, guarded by the elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), serves as the backbone of Iran’s oil exports, processing 90 percent of the nation’s total output. According to Al Jazeera, the island handles approximately 950 million barrels of oil annually, primarily destined for Asian markets, with China being the leading importer.
Strategically located 55km (34 miles) northwest of Bushehr port, Kharg’s deep waters allow for safe docking of supertankers. The island’s oil facilities receive crude from three major offshore fields – Aboozar, Forouzan, and Dorood – which is then transported through subsea pipelines to processing facilities. Despite facing international sanctions, Iran has expanded the island’s infrastructure, recently adding two million barrels to its storage capacity by rehabilitating tanks 25 and 27.
Historically, Kharg’s significance predates the oil era, having been coveted by conquerors for its strategic maritime value. The island’s name has evolved over centuries, with various historical records documenting its importance as a trading hub. Colonizers, including the Portuguese and Dutch, sought control of Kharg, establishing trading posts and fortifications.
During the 20th century, Kharg transformed from a remote exile location under Reza Shah Pahlavi into a major crude export hub, officially commencing operations in August 1960. This shift marked the beginning of the modern petroleum era, with Kharg surpassing the Abadan port as a critical export terminal.
The island’s archaeological wealth is profound, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the end of the second millennium BC. Among its historical sites are the Mir Mohammad Shrine and the Mir Aram Shrine, which highlight the region’s religious and cultural diversity. The island also bears scars from the Iran-Iraq war, having endured significant bombardments before being rebuilt. Today, as geopolitical tensions persist, Kharg Island remains a heavily militarized zone, preserving its ecological character while serving as a vital economic lifeline for Iran.
