US will seize and control Iran’s Kharg Island and other key oil facilities, Trump says

US Threatens to Take Control of Iran's Key Oil Assets, According to Trump

US will seize and control Iran - On June 11, 2026, US President Donald Trump declared his intention to strike Iran’s vital oil infrastructure, including the strategically significant Kharg Island, during a post on his social media platform, Truth Social. The statement marked the latest escalation in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, with Trump asserting that the US military would soon assert dominance over the country’s energy resources. "We will be taking Kharg Island, and other oil infrastructure points, and assume total control of their Oil and Gas Markets," he emphasized, drawing a parallel to the US’s earlier actions in Venezuela.

Kharg Island: The Heart of Iran's Oil Exports

Kharg Island, situated in the northern reaches of the Persian Gulf, plays a central role in Iran’s energy exports. Despite its relatively modest size—spanning approximately 8 kilometers in length and 4 to 5 kilometers in width—the island hosts a vast network of critical facilities. These include storage tanks, pipelines, and offshore loading terminals that serve as the primary hub for transporting crude oil from Iran’s major oil fields. About 90% of the nation’s crude oil shipments depart through this location, with much of the oil destined for China and other Asian markets. Any disruption to Kharg Island’s operations could send ripples through global oil markets, which are already under strain.

The US’s decision to target Kharg Island follows a series of strikes that have intensified over the past three days. The most recent attack, which occurred into the early hours of Thursday, was described as more extensive and aggressive than the previous ones. While Iran released limited details about the damage, it claimed to have retaliated by firing missiles at Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. This pattern of exchange of fire suggests a growing sense of urgency on both sides.

Blockade and Naval Operations

In a separate development, the US military continued its efforts to enforce a blockade on Iranian ports. On Thursday, US forces launched missile strikes to neutralize a tanker attempting to transport Iranian oil, underscoring their commitment to disrupting the country’s energy exports. The incident highlighted the strategic importance of controlling maritime routes in the region, as oil shipments remain a cornerstone of Iran’s government revenue.

The conflict has also drawn international attention, particularly after an Indian official reported that a US strike on a merchant ship earlier in the week resulted in the deaths of three Indian sailors. This incident raised concerns about the broader implications of the war, as it risks involving additional nations in the region’s tensions. The US and Iran’s military actions have pushed the Middle East closer to the brink of a full-scale war, with negotiations to halt hostilities appearing to stall.

Strait of Hormuz: A Critical Waterway

At the core of the negotiations lies Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil supplies. The strait, which Iran announced was closed on Thursday, has been a source of contention since the war began. Although the country’s Foreign Ministry stated that the closure rendered the ceasefire "meaningless," it did not confirm abandoning the agreement entirely. The strait’s restricted traffic has already affected energy prices and the cost of essential goods beyond the region, making its status a key issue in diplomatic talks.

The US Central Command contested Iran’s claim of closing the strait, noting that the country has been limiting ship traffic for weeks. Trump, in a previous statement, revealed that the US had conducted a secret mission to bypass these restrictions, allowing vessels to navigate through the waterway. This move reflects the US’s determination to maintain access to critical oil routes, even as Iran seeks to leverage its strategic position.

Nuclear Dispute and Escalation

Compounding the crisis is the unresolved dispute over Iran’s nuclear program. Tehran maintains that its efforts are peaceful and aimed at energy production, but the US and Israel argue that the program could lead to the development of atomic weapons due to Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. This fear has driven the US to prioritize military action, with Trump stating that the war on February 28 was initiated to prevent Iran from achieving nuclear capability.

The nuclear issue has remained a sticking point in negotiations, with both sides unwilling to concede ground. As the conflict continues, the stakes grow higher, with potential consequences for global energy security and international relations. The recent exchange of fire, combined with the US’s control over oil infrastructure, signals a possible shift toward a more entrenched military standoff.

Despite the escalating tensions, Iran has not entirely abandoned diplomatic efforts. While the Foreign Ministry criticized the US for undermining the ceasefire, it left the door open for further talks. However, Trump’s threats and the intensity of the strikes suggest that the US is prepared to take a hard line, even if negotiations falter. The situation remains fluid, with each side preparing for the next phase of the conflict.

The impact of these actions extends beyond the immediate region. With global oil markets already teetering, a prolonged disruption could lead to severe economic consequences. The US’s focus on seizing control of Iran’s energy infrastructure aims to weaken the country’s ability to sustain its economy and influence regional politics. Meanwhile, Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz and its retaliation efforts demonstrate its resolve to protect its interests, regardless of the cost.

As the situation develops, the world watches closely for any signs of de-escalation or further conflict. Trump’s vow to seize Kharg Island and other oil facilities has reignited discussions about the potential for a US-led campaign to dominate Iran’s energy sector. The outcome of this conflict will not only shape the future of the Middle East but also have far-reaching implications for global energy markets and international diplomacy.