Sources Report Trump Weighs Capture of Iran's Kharg Island Oil Hub

Kharg Island is Iran's primary hub for oil exports through which 90% of Iran's crude oil passes.

President Trump is considering using US troops to invade and seize the island, according to USA Today citing Axios and CNN.

Al Jazeera

The Foundation for Defense of Democracies warned the seizure would pose significant operational challenges.

Iran produces more than 3 million barrels of oil a day, making Kharg Island central to the world's energy supply.

Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum demanding Iran reopen the Strait or face strikes.

The threat may be aimed at seizing key Iranian islands including Kharg.

Al Jazeera

The Pentagon is preparing to send about 3,000 troops alongside two Marine Expeditionary Units.

Thousands of Marines were already making their way to the Middle East as the Strait remained closed.

Occupation of Kharg Island could become a trap of America's own making.

The geographic isolation would pose force protection and sustainment challenges.

A former Iranian lawmaker warned any such move would be costly and result in heavy casualties.

The seizure could provoke Iran to intensify asymmetrical attacks.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has brought oil shipments to a halt.

Kharg Island's seizure would compound the economic shock.

Al-Sharq

This could deepen the economic pressure on Iran but also destabilize global energy markets.