President Donald Trump is reportedly considering the capture of Iran’s primary oil depot on Kharg Island.
The seizure would necessitate the presence of U.S. military forces on the ground. This development comes amid the continuing blockade in the Persian Gulf, which is hindering Gulf oil and preventing Trump from ending the war, even if he desired to do so, Axios reported late Sunday.
The island, a strategically important terminal situated 15 miles from Iran’s coast, handles nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports.
Trump is reportedly “drawn” to the concept of seizing Kharg Island outright, as it would lead to “an economic knockout of the regime,” a source told the publication. However, such a move could trigger Iranian counterattacks on oil facilities and pipelines across Gulf countries, particularly in Saudi Arabia.
On Saturday, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a prominent critic of Iran, lauded Trump’s “decision to take the war to Kharg Island” and forecasted that Iran’s economy would be “annihilated” if it lost control of the oil hub.
The report of Kharg island capture comes as Trump, on Friday, said U.S. Central Command carried out a major bombing raid on the island’s oil export terminal, claiming all military targets were “obliterated.”
At the same time, U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz said further actions, including additional strikes on the facility, remain possible.
White House did not immediately respond to Benzinga‘s request for comment.
Allies Hesitate On ‘Hormuz Coalition’
The Trump administration, meanwhile, is planning to announce the formation of a “coalition” to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, which borders the Iranian coast. The announcement, expected as early as this week, could change depending on battlefield conditions, reported the Wall Street Journal on Sunday.
The coalition plans come as the WTI crude oil price continued its upward journey. At 4.38 AM ET, it was trading 1.43% higher at $100.21 per barrel.
Trump, during the Air Force One gaggle on Sunday, urged them to protect their own territory, saying the U.S. does not rely on the shipping channel due to its own oil access. He said that his administration has contacted seven countries for potential support, but did not name them, though he previously suggested China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK could take part.
The president said support could include minesweepers and other naval equipment to counter drones and naval mines in the area. While speaking to the Financial Times, Trump warned that NATO allies could face “very bad” consequences if they do not contribute to securing the route.
Notably, a Reuters report on Monday suggested that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Australia have “no plans” to send warships to Hormuz.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by a Benzinga editor.
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