Why Kharg Island is central to the US-Iran standoff?
Kharg Island handles about 90% of Iran’s oil exports, making it one of the country’s most critical economic assets
As the United States and Iran enter the fifth week of a military and diplomatic confrontation, attention has focused on Kharg Island, Iran's main oil export hub. Washington has signalled it could seize the island, a move that would carry significant military, economic and political risks.
Why is Kharg Island important?
Kharg Island handles about 90% of Iran's oil exports, making it one of the country's most critical economic assets. Its deep-water terminals can accommodate Very Large Crude Carriers capable of transporting up to two million barrels of oil, says the BBC.
US forces struck around 90 targets on the island on March 13 but avoided damaging oil infrastructure, suggesting any future operation could aim to control, rather than destroy, export capacity.
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What military action is being considered?
US President Donald Trump has indicated he may order troops to seize the 20-square-kilometre island as a way to pressure Iran to ease its control over the Strait of Hormuz.
A potential operation could involve roughly 2,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division and nearly 5,000 US Marines from Marine Expeditionary Units.
Military planners would likely use a two-pronged approach:
- A nighttime airborne assault to secure key positions
- Amphibious landings using Osprey aircraft and Landing Craft Air Cushioned vehicles
What challenges would US forces face?
Any assault would require US naval forces to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, an area effectively controlled by Iran. This approach route, described by analysts as a "gauntlet," would expose ships to missile and drone attacks from the Iranian mainland.
On the island itself, Iran has reinforced defences, including surface-to-air missile systems. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that Iranian forces would "rain down fire" on any US forces attempting to invade. Iranian messaging has also signalled readiness, with state-linked reporting saying forces are 'waiting' for the opposition.
Troops could also face anti-personnel mines and coordinated drone attacks during a landing.
Could the US hold the island?
Even if US forces secured Kharg Island, maintaining control could prove difficult. Its proximity to the Iranian mainland would leave troops vulnerable to sustained bombardment.
Military analysts have compared the situation to Snake Island in the Ukraine war, where exposed positions were difficult to defend against persistent attacks from nearby territory.
Are there other possible targets?
Some analysts suggest the focus on Kharg Island could be part of a broader strategy or even a diversion. Other potential targets include Larak Island, located near the Strait of Hormuz, and Qeshm, a larger island believed to host underground military facilities. Iran also controls disputed islands such as Abu Musa and the Tunbs.
What role is diplomacy playing?
Despite the military build-up, Washington and Tehran are engaged in talks. Trump said the United States is in "serious discussions" with Iran and added that these talks could "end our military operations."
Pakistan has emerged as a potential intermediary.
Separately, international reactions have widened. Claudia Sheinbaum has said she "vows to take action" following the death of a Mexican citizen in US custody, underscoring broader tensions involving Washington.
A report attributed to Jeremy Bowen said that "Trump is waging war based on instinct and it isn't working," reflecting some external criticism of US strategy.
What is at stake?
A move to seize Kharg Island would represent a major escalation with implications for global energy supplies and regional stability. While it could disrupt Iran's oil exports, it also risks a broader conflict in the Gulf and a potentially prolonged military engagement.
