Mohsen Paknejad praised the dedicated efforts of oil workers, emphasizing that the oil value chain silently yet powerfully maintained the country’s energy security during critical times.

Paknejad, speaking on Thursday on the sidelines of First Vice President Mohammadreza Aref’s visit to the Oil Ministry, noted that the oil industry, with pre-established readiness and structures, quickly mobilized in response to the enemy’s attack.

"First, I must bow in respect to our noble nation, our capable and brave armed forces, and our learned scientists who defended the country and its system by sacrificing their lives against the Zionist regime’s brutal aggression," he said.

He added that oil industry workers stood alongside the people, the armed forces, and others who contributed to this historic effort. Necessary communications were established almost immediately after the early morning attack on June 12, activating pre-designed contingency plans.

Oil industry focuses on sustained production, risk reduction, stable fuel supply 

Paknejad stated that the oil industry’s actions during this period centered on several key priorities:

1. Maintaining production continuity across the oil value chain, from upstream oil and gas production to refined and petrochemical products.

2. Mitigating risks and eliminating potential hazards at facilities through ready-to-implement operational plans.

3. Preparing contingency scenarios for potential crude oil and product export disruptions to ensure rapid response if a crisis occurred.

4. Ensuring stable fuel supply nationwide. Initial regional restrictions were effectively managed thanks to the public’s cooperation. "I thank our people for their understanding," he said.

Rapid gas network restoration: A symbol of coordination in the oil industry 

The minister highlighted extensive efforts in the gas sector, noting that parts of the gas network were damaged in some areas. However, National Iranian Gas Company employees swiftly carried out repairs and restored operations.

"At first, I found it hard to believe when they said repairs were complete," Paknejad said. "But after seeing the stable gas flow at the National Iranian Gas Company’s dispatch center, I was assured of this mission’s success."

He emphasized that these efforts demonstrated synergy and coordination across the entire oil value chain—from production, transmission, refining, and distribution to exports—ensuring energy security during challenging times.

Oil value chain: The silent hero of the fuel crisis 

"As I mentioned earlier, during those 12 days, our people had no concerns about fuel, especially gasoline," Paknejad said. "Necessary logistics were in place, and precise measures were implemented."

He added that certain crisis-response actions were taken but declined to provide details, only confirming that fuel supply management was successfully executed.

"This achievement is not limited to one company but results from the collective effort of the oil value chain," he said. "Through resilience, coordination, and tireless work, this chain accomplished a remarkable feat."

Standing firm on the energy front: From Persian Gulf platforms to gas refineries 

The minister also praised oil and gas operational staff for their unparalleled role in sustaining energy operations.

"Within a short time, two gas refineries restored unaffected facilities to operation," he said, crediting effective coordination between the National Iranian Oil Company and the National Iranian Gas Company.

"Similar measures were taken in other sectors," Paknejad added. "Our colleagues remained at operational sites—high-risk environments by nature. Brave personnel on Persian Gulf platforms, in Asaluyeh, and other operational areas stayed at their posts despite clear dangers, demonstrating courage and sacrifice."

He concluded: "Oil industry workers gave their all during those 12 critical days, ensuring no disruption in the country’s energy operations."