US President Donald Trump has said he could seize Iran’s oil resources, including the strategic export hub at Kharg Island, as the war involving both countries and Israel continues.
In an interview with the Financial Times on Sunday, Trump said Washington could adopt a strategy similar to its approach in Venezuela, where he claimed the US intends to control the oil sector indefinitely.
He also added there’s an option to seize Kharg Island, through which most of Iran’s oil exports pass.
His words: “To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran, but some stupid people back in the US say: ‘why are you doing that?’ But they’re stupid people.”
“Maybe we take Kharg Island, maybe we don’t. We have a lot of options,” Trump told the FT. “It would also mean we had to be there [in Kharg Island] for a while.”
“I don’t think they have any defence. We could take it very easily,” Trump said dismissing Iran defence capabilities.
Trump’s comments come as the conflict in the region has pushed global oil prices sharply higher, with Brent crude rising above $116 per barrel, reflecting market concerns over supply disruptions.
According to reports, the Pentagon has already deployed thousands of troops to the region, including about 3,500 personnel who arrived recently, alongside additional marines and forces from the 82nd Airborne Division. The troops are reportedly trained for operations involving the seizure and control of strategic locations.
Despite the military build-up, Trump acknowledged the risks associated with targeting Iran’s oil infrastructure, including the possibility of increased US casualties and a prolonged conflict.
Trump also indicated that indirect talks with Iran were ongoing through intermediaries, including Pakistani emissaries, and suggested a deal to end the conflict could be reached soon. He has set an April 6 deadline for Iran to agree to terms or face further US strikes on its energy sector.