Karg Island, located roughly 16 miles (26 km) off Iran’s coast in the Persian Gulf, is the country’s primary oil export terminal — historically handling around 90% of its crude shipments.

In recent weeks, the island has become a focal point in the escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. While military strikes have targeted parts of the island, its oil infrastructure remains largely intact. U.S. officials have also reportedly discussed more aggressive scenarios, including the possibility of seizing or blockading the island, though no such operation has been carried out.

Any disruption to Karg could have major ripple effects on global energy markets, particularly given its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz, which carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Source imagery: Airbus