IRAN: Darkness in Abadan

Above the forest of silvered smokestacks that mark Anglo-Iranian's huge oil refinery at Abadan soar five towering gas pipes. For years flaming pillars of gas have jetted from these pipes, casting a ruddy glow on the night sky. But last week the night sky over Abadan was black. All but a handful of the 3,500 British oilmen who had tended the fires lovingly (and profitably) since they first flamed aloft had gone home. Darkness closed in along the neat cement walks separating the rows of bungalows where they had lived. The only sounds in the deserted town were the...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!