TEHRAN, Iran – Two major gas pipelines in Iran were the targets of a “terrorist sabotage” attack on Wednesday, according to Iranian Oil Minister Javad Owji. The attack caused explosions and subsequent fires in the country’s southwestern Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province and the southern Fars province.
Owji stated that the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC) was able to bring the situation under control following the early morning attacks. He also mentioned that repair work is currently underway, and the affected pipelines are expected to resume operations in 12 to 14 hours. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
The blasts have prompted the closure of industries and companies in the western Lorestan province until further notice, according to state agency IRNA. These attacks come amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Tehran has a history of accusing the United States and Israel of carrying out sabotage and assassinations in Iranian territory, and has warned of a forceful response to any potential attacks on its soil or against its interests in the region.
The attacks on the gas pipelines further highlight the volatile situation in the region and the ongoing conflicts that continue to impact various sectors across the Middle East. This incident also serves as a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with Iran leading an alliance aimed at resisting the influence of the United States and Israel in the region.