US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to seize the key Iranian oil hub, with latest speech heightening fears
3-MIN READ3-MIN ListenVanessa Caiin ShanghaiandWilliam Zhengin Hong KongPublished: 9:28pm, 2 Apr 2026Updated: 9:30pm, 2 Apr 2026Donald Trump’s threat to seize Kharg Island – a key Iranian oil hub – could be a risky proposition, analysts say, given its strategic location in the Persian Gulf.
In a highly anticipated speech late on Wednesday (US time), President Trump said that the “core strategic objectives” of Operation Epic Fury were “nearing completion”.
But he also warned about further strikes that could inflict heavy damage, heightening fears of a US seizure of Kharg Island amid mounting American troop build-up in the region.
WATCH: Donald Trump addresses nationTrump has made several pointed threats about seizing the island since start of the US-Israeli military campaign.
