Iran set to resume offshore oil and gas exploration
The exploration is considered to be a significant push for Iran’s petro-related earnings
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) – Iran is preparing to restart offshore oil and gas exploration activities in the Persian Gulf for the first time in five years, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to boost its energy sector.
The announcement was made by Mohyeddin Jafari, head of the Exploration Directorate at the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC), signaling a renewed push to assess and develop hydrocarbon reserves in the region.
According to a report by Iran’s Oil Ministry, exploration operations in offshore areas had been suspended since 2019 due to a critical shortage of marine drilling rigs.
However, Jafari stated that following a recent tender process, a contractor with an offshore rig has been selected, enabling exploration activities to resume in 2025—particularly in shared border zones with neighboring countries.
Jafari emphasized that over the past six and a half months, the NIOC’s exploration team has prioritized both strategic studies and operational preparations.
He also noted that the newly inaugurated Pezeshkian administration plans to conduct a comprehensive review of Iran’s exploration progress over the last three decades to optimize future efforts.
One of the administration’s key objectives is to accelerate the discovery of new hydrocarbon reserves by expanding drilling operations and deploying advanced geophysical technologies.
“By increasing the number of drilling rigs and utilizing cutting-edge equipment, we can potentially double the pace of new discoveries,” Jafari said.
The resumption of offshore exploration underscores Iran’s commitment to reinforcing its position as a major energy player, particularly in the strategically vital Persian Gulf.
The move is expected to enhance the country’s long-term production capabilities and strengthen its role in global oil and gas markets.
Industry analysts view this development as a crucial step for Iran, especially as it seeks to modernize its energy infrastructure and maximize output amid evolving geopolitical and economic conditions.
Further updates on exploration timelines and targeted offshore blocks are anticipated in the coming months.
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