Toxic Smoke Blankets Tehran as Israeli Strikes Target Oil Depots in Historic Escalation!
Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (journalist) | Sele Media Africa
In an unprecedented escalation of the ongoing conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran, multiple oil storage facilities in and around Tehran were struck over the weekend. The attacks ignited large fires, sending thick black smoke across the Iranian capital and prompting urgent public health warnings.
The Iranian Red Crescent Society on Sunday urged Tehran residents to take extra precautions against toxic air pollution and hazardous fumes from the burning fuel depots. Citizens were advised to stay indoors, wear masks if available, and keep windows and doors closed to limit exposure.
Authorities warned that thick black smoke, composed of burning hydrocarbons and other pollutants, could mix with rain, creating additional risks such as acidic or oil-contaminated precipitation capable of causing chemical burns and respiratory irritation.
Residents of Tehran, home to more than 10 million people, described eerie scenes as smoke obscured the sun and darkened the skies across the city. Visuals circulating on social media and confirmed by international outlets showed ominous black clouds and towering flames from the burning depots.
The strikes reportedly targeted four key fuel depots and petroleum logistics sites in Tehran and neighboring Alborz province, including the Aghdasieh oil warehouse, the Shahran oil depot, the Tehran refinery, and another storage site in Karaj. Iranian officials reported at least six fatalities and around 20 injuries at one of the sites, though independent verification remains pending.
Israeli authorities confirmed the strikes, stating that the targeted facilities were linked to military supply chains supporting Iran’s armed forces. This represents the first known attack on Iranian oil infrastructure in the capital region since the broader war began, now entering its ninth day.
Iran’s public health and environmental authorities emphasised that the smoke and residues from the fires may have long-term environmental and health impacts, particularly if contaminated rainwater reaches water supplies or public areas.
The attacks and their consequences have drawn global attention, with analysts warning that targeting energy infrastructure could intensify both humanitarian suffering and the geopolitical ramifications of the conflict.
Sources:
New Straits Times
Nigerian Eye
TheCable
Business Recorder
Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.
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