US-Israeli strike hits major petrochemical complex in southwest Iran

A US-Israeli military strike struck the South Pars petrochemical complex in Asaluyeh, southwestern Iran, on Monday, according to Iranian media reports. Fars News Agency reported explosions at the site following the attack, while the semi-official Mehr News Agency said the strikes hit multiple petrochemical facilities in Asaluyeh, including the Jam and Damavand plants. Asaluyeh is a critical energy hub for Iran’s petrochemical and natural gas industries.

Israeli defense minister claims major damage

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the operation, telling Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper: “The IDF just struck Iran’s largest petrochemical facility located in Asaluyeh.” Katz claimed that the targeted facilities account for approximately 85% of Iran’s petrochemical exports and added that they “are no longer operational.” Iranian authorities have not yet commented on the extent of the damage or potential casualties.

Economic warfare and Türkiye’s concerns

The strike marks a significant escalation in targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure, moving beyond military and intelligence targets to industrial facilities critical to the Iranian economy. Since the US-Israeli offensive began on February 28, more than 1,340 people have been killed in Iran, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. For Türkiye, which has energy and trade ties with Iran, the targeting of petrochemical facilities raises concerns about environmental damage, energy market volatility, and regional economic spillovers. Ankara has consistently warned that attacks on civilian infrastructure violate international law and has called for an immediate ceasefire and return to diplomacy.