- Kharg Island, which hosts Iran's main oil export terminal, has emerged as a key focus in the month-long conflict involving the United States and Israel.
- Strikes on Kharg's oil infrastructure or a ground invasion would severely curb Iran's oil exports, a crucial revenue source, and could lead to significant regional escalation and further increases in global oil prices.
- A US occupation of the island would place American troops just 33 kilometres off Iran's coast, making them vulnerable to the country's arsenal of drones and missiles.
- Other strategically important islands near the vital Strait of Hormuz, including Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunb, are also considered potential targets.
- Donald Trump previously stated that military assets on Kharg were 'obliterated' but oil infrastructure was spared, warning of reconsideration if Iran continued to disrupt traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
One app.
Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles. One news app.
How could US forces seize Kharg Island and why is it so risky?
United States
Kharg (Location)
Oil
Iran
Kharg Island
Donald Trump
Strait of Hormuz
Israel
the Strait of Hormuz
The United States
Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member?
Sign in here
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member?
Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member?
Sign in here
Our Picks