Kharg Island, vital for Iran’s oil exports, is under military threat as the U.S. considers seizing control to cripple Iran’s economy.
The numbers
Kharg Island, known as the “crown jewel of Iran,” handles roughly 90% of the nation’s crude oil exports. This strategic location has made it a focal point in ongoing military tensions, particularly as the United States considers seizing the island as part of its military actions in the Middle East. President Donald Trump views control of Kharg Island as a means to significantly reduce Iran’s oil revenue, which is crucial for the country’s economy.
The Pentagon has announced large aerial bombardments targeting more than 90 Iranian military sites on Kharg Island as of March 13, 2026. This escalation comes amid rising Brent crude prices, which have surged above $100 per barrel due to the conflict. Analysts predict that if Kharg Island is hit, oil prices could soar to $150 per barrel, further impacting global markets.
Kharg Island has served as Iran’s primary export terminal for crude oil since the 1960s and is connected by pipelines to the country’s largest oil and gas fields. Historically, Kharg Island has been a strategic maritime trading post for over 4,000 years, reinforcing its importance in regional trade and geopolitics. The island’s dominance in oil exports was solidified following the 1979 Islamic revolution, which reshaped Iran’s economic landscape.
U.S. officials have indicated that capturing Kharg Island could represent “an economic knockout of the regime.” This perspective underscores the island’s significance not only to Iran but also to global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply passes, adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as any disruption could have far-reaching consequences.
In the context of these military actions, tensions have escalated between Iran and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Iran has accused the UAE of allowing its territory to be used for missile strikes against Iranian positions, a claim that the UAE government has firmly rejected, asserting that it did not permit strikes from its territory. This diplomatic rift could further complicate the regional dynamics surrounding Kharg Island.
Kharg Island is often referred to among Iranians as the “forbidden island” due to the tight military restrictions and secrecy that surround it. This moniker reflects the strategic importance and the heightened security measures in place to protect this vital asset. The ongoing military actions and the potential for further escalation have raised concerns about the safety of the island and its critical infrastructure.
As military actions unfold, the exact implications of the U.S. potentially seizing Kharg Island remain unclear. Observers are closely monitoring the situation, with details about the timeline for any military actions regarding Kharg Island yet to be confirmed. The international community is watching closely, as the outcomes of these developments could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the region and impact global oil supply significantly.
