Trump Considers Seizing Iran's Kharg Island Amid Middle East Tensions

Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States is considering taking control of Iran's Kharg Island, the country's main oil export hub. Trump indicated that the operation could be carried out “very easily” while also noting that a diplomatic deal with Tehran could be reached “very quickly.”

Strategic Importance of Kharg Island

Kharg Island handles roughly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports, making it a critical target in the ongoing Iran-U.S. conflict. Control over the island would have significant economic and strategic consequences, affecting both Iran’s oil revenues and global energy markets.

Military Options and Risks

Trump suggested the U.S. could launch a military operation to seize the island if necessary.
Experts warn such an operation could escalate the conflict with Iran and trigger retaliatory attacks.
The logistics of occupying the island would be complex, given its defensive infrastructure and strategic importance.

Diplomatic Signals

Despite discussing military options, Trump also emphasized that a deal with Tehran could be reached quickly, signaling that diplomacy remains on the table even amid threats of direct action.

Broader Middle East Context

The statement comes amid the broader Iran-Israel war, which has seen missile attacks, Israeli strikes in Lebanon, and regional proxy actions involving Iran-aligned forces in Yemen. Global energy markets and regional security are under strain as tensions escalate.

Implications

A military seizure of Kharg Island would significantly escalate the conflict and could provoke widespread retaliation from Iran. Analysts caution that such an action could disrupt global oil supplies and complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.