Washington: Amid rising hostilities between Iran and Israel, US President Donald Trump has sparked fresh controversy by suggesting that the United States could take control of one of Iran’s most critical oil export points, Kharg Island.
In an interview published by the Financial Times on Sunday, Trump openly discussed the possibility of targeting the strategic island, which handles a major share of Iran’s crude exports. He indicated that Washington is weighing multiple options, including direct control of the facility, though he stopped short of confirming any immediate action.
Kharg Island, located off Iran’s southern coast in the Persian Gulf, plays a central role in the country’s energy infrastructure. Analysts view any attempt to seize it as a move that could significantly disrupt global oil supply chains while intensifying geopolitical tensions across the region.
Trump also downplayed Iran’s defensive capabilities at the site, suggesting that any operation there would face limited resistance. His remarks come after earlier US airstrikes that Washington said were aimed at military-linked targets on or near the island.
Tehran, however, has responded with strong warnings. Iranian officials have threatened broader retaliation if American forces attempt to land on Iranian territory, including potential strikes and escalation beyond its borders. There have also been signals that Iran could widen the conflict by targeting interests in neighboring Gulf nations.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of an already volatile standoff involving Iran and Israel, with fears growing that any direct US intervention could push the region toward a wider confrontation.
Global observers are closely monitoring developments, as even the suggestion of targeting a key oil hub has raised concerns about energy markets and the risk of a prolonged military engagement in the Gulf.
