Explosion at Iraq oil field: Video shows thick smoke at HKN Energy's Sarang facility in Kurdistan; operations suspended

An explosion rocked the Sarang oil field operated by HKN Energy in Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region early Tuesday morning, forcing the company to suspend operations as emergency crews battled ongoing fires.

In an official statement released at 7:00 AM local time, HKN Energy confirmed the blast occurred at one of its production facilities in the Sheikhan district of Duhok province. “All personnel have been safely accounted for, and no injuries have been reported,” the company said.

The facility, however, remains on fire. Emergency response teams have been deployed and are actively working to contain the blaze, while the cause of the explosion is still under investigation.

"HKN Energy has initiated a full assessment of the damage and is coordinating closely with local authorities and relevant stakeholders to manage the response and ensure the safety of surrounding communities," the company added. Operations at the facility have been suspended pending a complete site evaluation.

A video shared by Sabreen News, a Telegram channel affiliated with Iran-aligned Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), showed thick plumes of smoke rising from the site following the explosion. The footage has since circulated widely on social media.

The incident has drawn attention in the global oil market, though no immediate impact on supply or pricing was reported. HKN Energy stated that it remains committed to “the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility” and will issue further updates as more details become available.