Speculation Grows on Potential US Seizure of Iran's Kharg Island
Reports indicate a Marine Expeditionary Unit of about 2,500-5,000 troops is en route to the Middle East, potentially for this purpose.
Tommy Flynn
Speculation is intensifying that the United States may seize Iran's Kharg Island amid the escalating conflict, with reports of Marine deployments fueling discussions on a ground operation to control the strategic oil hub.
The island, a 20-square-kilometer coral outcrop 15 miles off Iran's coast, handles about 90% of Iran's crude exports, with storage for up to 30 million barrels and loading capacity for 7 million barrels daily, making it Tehran's economic lifeline. Seizing it could cripple Iran's revenues, force regime collapse, and provide a base for mainland strikes, but risks global oil spikes and Iranian retaliation.
Recent U.S. strikes on March 13 obliterated military sites on Kharg while sparing oil facilities, prompting theories of preparation for occupation. President Trump stated seizure is "not high on the list" but could change if Iran blocks the Strait of Hormuz.
Analysts suggest a seizure would involve 2,500-5,000 Marines in an amphibious assault, securing the island as a rapid-response force base, though risks include Iranian bombardment and escalation. Reports indicate a Marine Expeditionary Unit of about 2,500-5,000 troops is en route to the Middle East, potentially for this purpose.
Pentagon officials have declined comment, emphasizing reluctance for large-scale ground operations.