Iran Official Denies New Attack on Qeshm Desalination Plant Amid Rumors

QESHM ISLAND, Iran — A senior Iranian official on Monday dismissed circulating rumors of a fresh assault on a critical desalination facility on Qeshm Island, stating that no new attacks have occurred since the initial hostilities of the ongoing conflict.

Hormozgan Province Deputy Governor Mohammad Reza Khosravi addressed the speculation during a press briefing, confirming that the only recorded incidents involving the infrastructure were those from the initial phase of the war. Khosravi emphasized that the facility remains operational and that reports suggesting a recent American-Zionist strike were unfounded.

The denial comes amid heightened tension in the Persian Gulf region, where infrastructure targeting has been a focal point of recent military exchanges. The desalination plant on Qeshm Island is a vital asset for the province, providing fresh water to a population that relies heavily on the facility due to the arid climate. Recent unconfirmed reports had suggested that the plant suffered damage from a new aerial or missile strike, prompting concerns over potential water shortages.

Khosravi stated that the government has monitored the facility closely and has found no evidence of new damage. He urged the public to rely on official channels for information rather than social media speculation, which he noted had spread rapidly in recent days. The deputy governor did not elaborate on the nature of the initial attacks recorded during the early stages of the conflict, but confirmed that repairs were completed and the plant is functioning at full capacity.

The situation remains fluid as regional observers continue to monitor the status of critical infrastructure across Iran. While the deputy governor's statement aims to quell panic, the lack of independent verification from international monitors leaves questions regarding the facility's long-term resilience. Analysts note that the denial of a new attack does not rule out the possibility of sabotage or cyber operations that may not be immediately visible.

Residents of Qeshm Island have reported normal water pressure and supply levels, though some have expressed concern over the reliability of official statements given the history of conflicting reports during the conflict. The Iranian military has not issued a separate statement regarding the specific incident, leaving the deputy governor's remarks as the primary official account.

As the region braces for potential further escalation, the status of the Qeshm desalination plant remains a key indicator of the conflict's impact on civilian infrastructure. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.