Iran says oil exports generated $18B during US-led war and sanctions
Tehran says wartime sales and post-ceasefire exports remained strong, underscoring resilience despite Washington’s military campaign and economic pressure
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran says it earned approximately $18 billion from oil exports during the United States initiated war and the subsequent ceasefire period, arguing that its energy sector continued operating despite Washington’s military offensive and years of sanctions aimed at crippling the country’s economy.
Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad said Iran generated $11.5 billion in oil sales during the conflict, which began after the United States and Israel launched military operations on Feb. 28, followed by another $6.5 billion in exports during the ceasefire.
According to Paknejad, the combined revenue allowed Iran to secure more than 60% of its projected annual oil income, despite the conflict and continued US economic restrictions.
The minister said Iran had accumulated nearly 100 million barrels of crude oil and gas condensate before the outbreak of hostilities, enabling the country to continue supplying international markets throughout the fighting.
Paknejad attributed the strong export performance to improved conditions for oil tanker movements during parts of the conflict, allowing Iran to release a substantial share of its stored reserves despite the ongoing sanctions campaign led by Washington.
Although Iranian officials did not identify specific buyers, China is widely regarded as the largest destination for Iranian crude, continuing to purchase significant volumes despite US efforts to isolate Tehran’s energy sector.
The figures suggest Iran maintained a steady flow of oil exports even as the United States sought to weaken the country’s economy through sanctions and military pressure.
Tehran argues the results demonstrate that Washington’s long-running strategy has failed to halt Iranian energy exports or deprive the government of a key source of revenue.
Market analysts note that Iran’s increased sales were supported by reduced shipping disruptions during parts of the ceasefire, existing stockpiles and alternative export channels.
However, they caution that future shipments could still be affected by renewed sanctions enforcement or another escalation in regional tensions.