Former U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that the United States could take control of Iran’s key oil export infrastructure, including Kharg Island, as hostilities between Washington and Tehran intensify following overnight exchanges of strikes.
Kharg Island, which handles an estimated 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports, has been described as a strategic hub for the country’s energy sector. Reports indicate that contingency plans involving the island have been considered for months but repeatedly shelved due to the high-risk nature of such an operation.
Trump also issued a strong warning that the United States could strike Iran “very hard” in response to continued attacks, while escalating rhetoric around potential control of Iran’s oil and gas markets.
The developments come after Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for targeting U.S. military bases in the region for a second consecutive day, following earlier American strikes on Iranian territory. Iran also stated that the Strait of Hormuz had been closed, although the claim was rejected by U.S. military officials.
Amid the rising tensions, a Qatari delegation reportedly left Tehran after talks with Iranian officials conducted in coordination with the United States. The discussions, which extended into the early hours, took place even as military actions continued on both sides.
Iranian officials have warned of stronger responses to any further attacks, signaling the possibility of further escalation in the already volatile regional conflict.
