Iran's Lavan refinery is set to restore 80% of its pre-war operational capacity within two months, according to Deputy Oil Minister Mohammad Sadegh Azimifar. The announcement, reported by Fars news agency on April 12, 2026, comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States following weeks of hostilities that began in late February.
Azimifar, who heads the National Iranian Oil Refining and Distribution Company, stated during a site visit that critical repairs to war-damaged infrastructure are progressing rapidly. Partial operations are expected to resume within 10 days, marking a significant step toward stabilizing Iran's energy sector.
The refinery on Lavan Island—a key hub for fuel production—was targeted in joint U.S.-Israeli strikes in February that killed former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and damaged civilian infrastructure. Azimifar accused 'enemies' of attempting to cripple Iran's energy independence but emphasized their efforts had 'failed to achieve strategic goals.'
The restoration efforts coincide with a two-week ceasefire that took effect on April 10, offering temporary relief to regional tensions. Analysts suggest the refinery's recovery could bolster Iran's economic resilience amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.
