The Trouble With Seizing Kharg Island

Kharg Island, located 20 miles off the Iranian coast, is a small but vital piece of land for Iran’s oil exports. The U.S. contemplating seizing this island as a means to pressure Iran economically. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, Iran continues to export oil, which helps sustain its economy. Seizing Kharg could negate this advantage, potentially forcing Iran to negotiate.

The operation involves risks. Iran could retaliate by setting fire to oil facilities, creating environmental and health hazards for U.S. troops. Resupply missions would face threats from Iranian drones and missiles. The situation could escalate into a prolonged conflict, resembling the war in Ukraine, with potential strikes on oil-and-gas facilities across the region.

Despite these challenges, successful seizure and control of Kharg Island could provide the U.S. with significant leverage. By cutting off Iran’s oil exports, the U.S. could compel Iran to meet American demands. However, the Trump administration has never undertaken such a risky operation, which involves occupying territory within an adversary’s borders.

It serves as the departure point for approximately 90% of Iran’s oil exports.

Potential Iranian retaliation, including setting oil facilities ablaze and missile strikes, as well as logistical challenges.

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