US President Donald Trump on Thursday warned that the United States would strike Iran “very hard tonight,” signaling a major escalation in tensions between the two countries. In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that Iran’s naval, air, radar and air defense capabilities had been largely destroyed. He also warned that further military action would follow if Iran does not agree to a peace deal on US terms.
Trump Threatens to Take Control of Kharg Island
In one of his strongest statements yet, Trump said the United States would eventually take control of Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub, along with other key oil infrastructure facilities. He added that the US would assume “total control” of Iran’s oil and gas markets, comparing the move to what he described as US control over Venezuela’s energy sector.
Why Is Kharg Island Important?
Kharg Island is the center of Iran’s oil export operations and handles most of the country’s crude oil shipments. Located around 26 kilometers off Iran’s northern Gulf coast, the island has deep waters that allow large oil tankers to dock. This gives it a major strategic advantage over Iran’s shallow mainland coastline. Due to its importance, access to the island is tightly controlled and it is heavily guarded by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Any disruption at Kharg Island could seriously impact Iran’s economy and energy exports.
Previous US Plans and Security Risks
According to reports, the US had earlier explored the possibility of seizing Kharg Island through a ground invasion. However, the plan was never carried out because of the April 8 ceasefire. US officials had reportedly warned that such an operation could lead to heavy American casualties, as troops would be vulnerable to Iranian missile attacks.
Reports also suggested that Iran had prepared defensive traps around the island to discourage any military assault.
Ceasefire Under Threat
Trump’s latest comments came after the United States and Iran exchanged air attacks on Thursday, increasing fears that the ceasefire agreed in April could collapse. The renewed fighting has reduced hopes of a quick end to the conflict and raised concerns about a wider regional war.
Oil Prices Rise as Tensions Increase
Global oil markets reacted quickly to the developments. Oil prices rose nearly $3 after Trump threatened further attacks if Iran failed to reach a deal. Meanwhile, Iran announced that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz to all vessels. The waterway is one of the world’s most important routes for oil transportation, making the situation a major concern for global energy markets.
First published on: Jun 11, 2026 08:01 PM IST
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