Why did the US attack Harg Island in Iran?
US President Donald Trump has stated that the US military has carried out strikes on Kharg Island off the coast of Iran, where one of the country’s largest oil terminals is located. According to him, the island’s military facilities were ‘completely destroyed’, though it was decided not to attack the oil infrastructure. This is reported by the BBC.
Trump also warned that this decision could be reconsidered if Iran or other parties begin to obstruct shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most vital maritime transport corridors.
Kharq Island is located approximately 24 km off the coast of Iran in the Persian Gulf. Despite its small size, it is a key element of the country’s energy infrastructure.
Around 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports pass through the island’s oil terminal. The crude is transported here via pipelines from the mainland.
The island’s berths can accommodate large oil tankers that transport oil to various countries, including China — one of the main buyers of Iranian oil.
According to Trump, US Central Command carried out “one of the most powerful airstrikes in the history of the Middle East”, destroying military facilities on the island.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media claimed that the oil facilities on the island had not been damaged. According to their reports, the strikes targeted military targets, including air defence systems, a naval base, the airport control tower and a helicopter hangar.
Local authorities also reported that there were no casualties among military personnel, oil company workers or island residents, and that oil exports are continuing.
Analysts note that the destruction of the oil terminal could deal a serious economic blow to Iran, but at the same time would significantly escalate the conflict.
Such a move could significantly escalate the situation in the region. In particular, it could cause a sharp rise in global oil prices, provoke Iranian strikes on the energy infrastructure of other Middle Eastern countries, and pose a threat to the safety of shipping in the Persian Gulf.Experts also stress that Iran retains the capability to attack the region with drones or other strategic targets, including desalination plants that supply drinking water to millions of people.
There have also been suggestions in the media that the US may attempt to take control of Kharg Island. Capturing it would effectively cut off Iran’s ability to export oil and weaken the economic resources of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
It is reported that US amphibious ships carrying several thousand marines may be deployed to the Persian Gulf. However, the Pentagon has not officially commented on these reports.
