An Iranian supertanker began loading crude oil at Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub, despite a US naval blockade, according to vessel-monitoring firm TankerTrackers. The loading was detected on Friday, the first such case involving an Iranian supertanker at the island since late July. The report was published on August 15, 2026.

TankerTrackers said a Very Large Crude Carrier operated by the National Iranian Tanker Company was loading at the Azarpad jetty on Kharg Island. About 2 million barrels of crude oil were being loaded onto the vessel. Kharg Island normally handles about 90 percent of Iran’s total crude oil exports, making the activity significant for the country’s export operations.

The United States reimposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports in mid-July, creating uncertainty over Iran’s oil exports and maritime traffic. TankerTrackers said Iran’s overall oil production is currently broadly aligned with domestic demand. The firm said Iran may therefore not need to export very large volumes of oil.