US President Donald Trump has once again raised tensions
with Iran by publicly stating that Washington could seize control of Kharg
Island, considered the Islamic Republic's main oil export platform and one of
the country's most important strategic assets.
The president's statements come amid growing confrontation
between the two governments and following a series of US military operations
against Iranian targets. Trump asserted that the island represents a key point
in Iran's energy and security strategy in the Persian Gulf, implying that the
United States would be prepared to take control of this infrastructure.
Kharg Island, located off the southern coast of Iran, is
considered the country's main oil storage and shipping hub. Approximately 90%
of Iran's crude oil exports, equivalent to roughly 1.5 million barrels per day,
leave through its terminals, making it a target of enormous economic and
geopolitical significance. Any damage to its facilities would have an immediate
impact on the international energy market and on Tehran's oil revenues.