Israeli Airstrikes Create Deadly Toxic Rain Over Tehran As Oil Fires Rage For Days

Israeli airstrikes on oil depots near Tehran have left the city choking under thick black smoke and toxic rain. Israeli jets hit four oil depots and a petroleum logistics site around Iran’s capital. One of the targets was the Shahran depot in northwestern Tehran, which had reportedly been previously targeted in June. Israel’s Energy Minister Eli Cohen confirmed the sites were used for military purposes.

Israeli jets struck four oil depots near Tehran, leaving the city blanketed in thick black smoke and toxic rain.

The fires burned for over 12 hours at some locations. Thick black smoke blocked out the sun, causing what looked like a midday blackout across Tehran. Videos on social media showed flames lighting up the western, southern, and northern skies. The smoke was visible dozens of kilometers away. Residents reportedly described fuel residue landing on their balconies.

The situation got worse when toxic rain began falling after the strikes. Reports described it as “raining oil.” Iran’s Red Crescent reportedly warned that the acid rain could cause lung and skin diseases. Even after the rain stopped, the danger didn’t end. Toxic hydrocarbons, sulfur, and nitrogen oxides had evaporated into the air, continuing to poison the environment. Authorities told residents to stay indoors and avoid going outside. Experts note that toxic substances like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide are among the most harmful byproducts of large-scale fuel combustion events, posing severe risks to air quality and public health.

Security forces on the streets were reportedly seen wearing masks and special protective coats. Residents reported symptoms like breathing problems and eye irritation, consistent with exposure to heavy smoke. The Red Crescent urged people not to go outdoors at all. Despite the chaos, locals said water, electricity, and food were still available.

According to local authorities, an estimated six people were killed and 20 others were wounded at one of the depot sites. Nearby buildings had their windows blown out from the explosions. Numerous fuel tankers and vehicles at the Shahran depot were left unusable. Oil was still smoldering the day after the strikes.

The strikes are the latest escalation in a U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict ongoing since late February airstrikes. Energy analysts have warned that restoring disrupted oil and gas flows could take months to years, urging nations to implement emergency energy measures in response to the growing crisis.

✅ Claims in this article were verified using AI-assisted fact-checking.