Arabic version: الولايات المتحدة تفكر في اتخاذ إجراءات ضد جزيرة خارك الاستراتيجية الإيرانية

US President Donald Trump has indicated potential military action against Kharg Island, a vital oil terminal off the Iranian coast. In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Trump expressed interest in seizing the island, stating, “Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options.” According to BBC News, the island is crucial to Iran’s economy, with 90% of its crude oil exported through its facilities.

The US military has already conducted strikes on military targets on the island, with Trump asserting that the oil infrastructure has been spared to avoid long-term economic damage to Iran. However, there are concerns that a US takeover of Kharg Island could effectively choke off Iran’s oil exports and serve as a base for further military operations against the Iranian mainland.

In response to the escalating situation, Iran has reinforced its defenses on Kharg Island, deploying additional military personnel and air defense systems. Iranian officials have warned that any US ground invasion would be met with severe resistance, with threats of retaliation against American forces.

As tensions rise, the Pentagon has reportedly made preparations for possible troop deployments to the region. The arrival of 3,500 US sailors and marines in the Middle East has added to speculation regarding a potential operation to occupy or blockade Kharg Island, which plays a significant role in Iran’s military and economic capabilities.