Flames and Thick Smoke at Tehran Refinery: What Happened Inside the Oil Facility?

Tehran Refinery stated that the thick smoke and rising flames from the facility today, Sunday, are due to the automatic activation of gas venting and flaring systems to ensure safety, following transient electrical and technical problems. According to Reuters agency.

The refinery mentioned that the systems were activated to vent excess gases under industrial safety procedures.

It confirmed that no fires broke out in the refinery's processing units, and the situation is under control, adding that teams are working to restore normal operations. It noted that fuel production and supply continued without interruption.

In a related context, Iranian state television reported hearing explosion sounds early Sunday morning in several areas in southern Iran, including Qeshm Island located in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian TV indicated that the explosions may be linked to Iranian military activities in this strategic waterway, which has been subject to repeated attacks on commercial ships since the outbreak of war between America and Iran in February.

TV added that Iranian officials have not confirmed any missile strikes on those areas, while semi-official Tasnim News Agency quoted a source saying "the explosions heard in Qeshm Island are unrelated to missile strikes."