US President Donald Trump has said he is considering the possibility of seizing Iran's oil and suggested that American forces could capture Kharg Island, the country's main export hub. His remarks came as the conflict entered its second month, with Washington weighing several options in the region.
Trump says US could 'take the oil'
Speaking in an interview with the Financial Times, Trump said his preferred approach would be to control Iran's oil resources. He added that Kharg Island could be a potential target, though no final decision had been made.
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"To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran," he said, while noting that the United States has multiple options on the table. He also suggested that capturing the island could require a continued American presence.
Trump further claimed that Iran's defences on Kharg Island were limited, saying the US could take control "very easily".
"I don't think they have any defence. We could take it very easily," he said.
He compared the idea to Washington's approach in Venezuela, indicating that control over oil infrastructure could be maintained for a prolonged period.
US weighs possible ground operations
Separate reports indicate that the US is examining contingency plans that include limited ground operations. These could involve targeted raids near the Strait of Hormuz and the possible seizure of Kharg Island.
The proposed actions are not expected to resemble a full-scale invasion. Instead, they may rely on special forces and conventional troops aimed at weakening Iran's strategic leverage over key energy routes. Officials have said all options remain under consideration.
Why Kharg Island matters
Kharg Island is small but crucial to Iran's oil network. Located in the northern Persian Gulf, it serves as the country's primary export terminal, with pipelines from major oil fields converging there. Around 90 per cent of Iran's crude oil exports reportedly pass through the island before being loaded onto tankers.
The island's deep-water terminals allow large tankers to dock, making it central to Iran's energy trade and government revenue. Any disruption to its infrastructure could significantly affect global oil markets and supply chains.
Iran's oil reserves and production
Iran holds one of the world's largest proven crude reserves, estimated at about 208–209 billion barrels, accounting for roughly 12 per cent of global reserves. The country produces a little over 3 million barrels per day, keeping it among the major players in global energy markets.
Because of Kharg Island's role in handling most exports, control over the facility is widely viewed as a major pressure point. Any move to occupy or blockade it could directly impact Iran's oil revenue and global supply routes.
