U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified the Middle East crisis by publicly stating that he could seize Iran’s oil, including the Kharg Island export hub, a facility through which roughly 90 % of Iranian crude is exported. His remarks have heightened global tensions and sent Brent crude prices surging past $116 per barrel. 

Speaking in an interview, Trump said his “favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran,” suggesting U.S. forces could capture Kharg Island despite the risk of retaliation. Analysts warn that such an action could provoke a regional escalation, drawing in Iran’s allies and affecting international shipping routes. 

The strategic significance of Kharg Island cannot be overstated. It handles the vast majority of Iran’s crude exports, making it a key chokepoint for global energy supply. Any disruption there could trigger spikes in fuel prices worldwide, already volatile due to ongoing conflict in the Gulf. 

The U.S.–Israel war on Iran, now into its fifth week, has seen multiple military engagements, including missile strikes and counterattacks. While Trump emphasizes that diplomatic channels remain open, his public statements regarding oil capture have alarmed both allies and opposition lawmakers, raising questions about U.S. intentions in the region.