Trump weighs in on potential seizure of Iran's Kharg Island and its oil market impact.

How Donald Trump responded to the Kharg Island question

According to TSN.ua: U.S. President Donald Trump addressed questions about a possible takeover of Iran’s Kharg Island, stating it is not a top priority for the United States—though he left the door open to changing his stance. Trump remarked:

“I can’t answer that question. It’s one of many different issues; it’s not at the top of the list.”

“I can change my mind in a matter of seconds.”

Why Kharg Island matters strategically

Located roughly 25 kilometers off Iran’s mainland, Kharg Island serves as a critical hub: about 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports pass through it. Destroying or capturing the island could trigger a sharp spike in oil prices, potentially reaching $150 per barrel. Given these stakes, experts warn of severe economic repercussions if the U.S. takes action.

Iran has already pushed back against such rhetoric, stressing serious consequences for any attack on its southern islands. The speaker of Iran’s parliament stated:

“Any assault on Iran’s southern islands will provoke an entirely new, unprecedented level of retaliation from the Islamic Republic.”

Trump’s own allies hold differing views on potential moves against Iran, with one advisor opposing war with the country. This reveals internal disagreement within the U.S. administration over how to handle Iran and resolve conflicts.

The situation surrounding Kharg Island is a key piece in the broader puzzle of U.S.-Iran relations, which have remained fraught after years of clashes and sanctions. Given the island’s strategic role in Iran’s economy, any military action there could have serious global consequences—especially for world oil prices. It also shows that the Trump administration continues to weigh military and diplomatic options in its foreign policy approach.