Trump Declares U.S. ‘Obliterated’ Iran’s Military Power on Kharg Island, But Preserves Vital Oil Infrastructure
A recent satellite image highlights the oil terminal at Kharg Island, Iran, as tensions escalate following a significant bombing raid. U.S. President Donald Trump announced on February 25, 2026, that he authorized U.S. Central Command to target military installations on the island, remarking, “Moments ago, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island.” He emphasized that while the military targets were struck, he opted not to destroy the island’s oil infrastructure for now.
In a follow-up post, Trump expressed his resolve, warning that any interference with the free passage of ships through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz could prompt a reevaluation of his decision. He reiterated, “Iran had plans of taking over the entire Middle East, and completely obliterating Israel. JUST LIKE IRAN ITSELF, THOSE PLANS ARE NOW DEAD!”
After addressing reporters prior to boarding Air Force One, Trump stated that the military campaign could extend “as long as necessary,” though he avoided committing to a specific timeline, indicating instead that progress was ahead of expectations. He elaborated on his concept of “unconditional surrender,” framing it as a position of dominance that Iran must recognize.
Geopolitical analysts deem the U.S. push to seize Kharg Island-a crucial hub for Iran’s oil exports-as extremely risky. This five-mile-long coral island, situated approximately 15 miles off the Iranian mainland, has largely remained untouched amid ongoing U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran. Reports suggest that discussions within the Trump administration have considered the potential seizure of the island, which accounts for around 90% of Iran’s crude exports and boasts a loading capacity of about 7 million barrels per day.
The White House anticipates a dramatic decline in oil prices following the conclusion of what they term “Operation Epic Fury.” Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt noted that the president is wisely keeping all options available. However, analysts caution that any military options involving Kharg Island would likely necessitate ground troop involvement, a prospect the U.S. appears reluctant to pursue. Such actions could also exacerbate already soaring global oil prices.
Following the heightened military engagements, Brent crude oil futures experienced a notable surge, closing above $100 per barrel for two consecutive days. The global oil benchmark has risen over 40% since the onset of the current conflict, reflecting the volatility and uncertainty surrounding the situation in the Middle East.
As the situation continues to unfold, further developments could have widespread implications for global oil markets and geopolitical dynamics, making Kharg Island a focal point of international attention in the ongoing conflict.
— CNBC’s Riya Bhattacharjee contributed to this report.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/13/trump-says-us-obliterated-military-targets-on-irans-kharg-island-but-didnt-wipe-out-oil-infrastructure.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2026-03-14 06:16:00
