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Trump Eyes Seizing Kharg Island
President Donald Trump is considering a ground assault on Iran’s Kharg Island to disrupt its oil exports, but analysts warn it could expose U.S. troops to high risks and prolong the conflict.
International daily newspaper from Thursday 5th November 2020 – Le Monde (France) & The New York Times (USA) – After the election report. By Unsplash
U.S. President Donald Trump is evaluating the possibility of deploying ground troops to capture Iran’s primary oil export terminal on Kharg Island, a move experts caution could endanger American forces and prolong the conflict instead of ending it quickly.
Located about 16 miles (26 km) off Iran’s northern Gulf coastline and roughly 300 miles (483 km) from the Strait of Hormuz, Kharg Island plays a central role in Iran’s oil trade. Its deep waters allow large tankers to dock something not possible along much of Iran’s shallow coastline. The island is responsible for nearly 90% of Iran’s oil exports, meaning its capture could significantly disrupt Tehran’s economy. Iran ranks as the third-largest oil producer within the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.
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In mid-March, U.S. forces launched strikes targeting the island, with Trump claiming that all military there had been “totally obliterated.” He indicated that oil infrastructure could be targeted next. According to U.S. officials speaking to Reuters, discussions are ongoing about whether to follow up with a ground operation. Plans being considered include deploying two Marine units to the region by the end of the month, along with thousands of airborne troops to expand military options.
While analysts believe U.S. forces could take control of Kharg Island relatively quickly, they argue that doing so would not necessarily secure a decisive outcome. Ryan Brobst and Cameron McMillan of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies said such an operation is more likely to widen and prolong the conflict than resolve it.
They warned that U.S. troops on the island would face serious threats from Iranian missiles and drone attacks, including small, camera-equipped “first-person view” drones similar to those heavily used in Ukraine. They also noted that any successful Iranian strikes could be used for propaganda, potentially showcasing U.S. casualties in graphic detail.
Additional risks include Iran increasing its use of naval mines, including floating mines launched from shore, which could further disrupt shipping lanes already affected by the conflict.
Retired General Joseph Votel stated that although around 800 to 1,000 troops might be enough to capture the island, maintaining control would require substantial logistical support and protection. He emphasized that such forces would remain exposed and questioned whether holding the island would provide meaningful strategic benefits.
“It would be kind of an odd thing to do. But we could certainly do it if we had to,” Votel said.
Experts also suggest that Trump may see control of Kharg Island as a way to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz and strengthen Washington’s position in any future negotiations. However, they caution that such a move could instead escalate tensions and extend the duration of the war.
Editor’s Note:
This article is based on reported statements from U.S. officials, military analysts, and publicly available information regarding deliberations by President Donald Trump over potential military action targeting Iran’s Kharg Island. Details about troop deployments and operational plans remain subject to change, and independent verification of battlefield outcomes and strategic impacts is limited due to the evolving nature of the conflict.
