In a significant development, Mohammad Dehghan, the Assistant to the Iranian President for Legal Affairs, confirmed on Friday that Iran would initiate the extraction of oil and gas from the disputed Arash-Dorra field if Kuwait were to take similar action. Stressing the importance of a peaceful resolution, Dehghan highlighted that while the field belongs in part to Iran, the country has refrained from exploiting it to avoid tensions with Kuwait and its neighbors.
“We believe in unified extraction from the Arash-Dorra field to ensure safe extraction and production,” emphasized Dehghan, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to a collaborative approach. He acknowledged that Kuwait has not yet expressed a stance and is exploring joint extraction possibilities, especially given the field’s presence in Saudi waters.
“We still believe that the field is shared, and we seek integration, but if Kuwait begins oil extraction from the field, then we will also start,” declared Dehghan, signaling Iran’s readiness to act in tandem with Kuwait.
Simultaneously, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani rejected the Gulf Cooperation Council’s statement that considered the Arash-Dorra gas field the exclusive property of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Describing the statement as “unconstructive,” Kanaani asserted Iran’s rejection of the claim.
The Arash-Dorra field, despite its significant economic and political importance as an anticipated reserve for gas production, has faced production hurdles since its exploration in 1960 due to its location in a border area. The evolving situation underscores the complex dynamics surrounding the field and the diplomatic efforts required to find a mutually agreeable resolution.
