US Carries Out Major Strike On Iran’s Kharg Island, Trump Says

US President Donald Trump said the United States carried out a major bombing raid on Kharg Island, claiming American forces destroyed military targets at the country’s key oil export hub while deliberately avoiding energy infrastructure.

Trump said in a social media statement that he ordered the operation and that the United States Central Command carried it out.

“Moments ago, at my direction, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island,” Trump wrote.

Trump said American forces could destroy the island’s energy infrastructure but chose not to do so.

“Our Weapons are the most powerful and sophisticated that the World has ever known but, for reasons of decency, I have chosen NOT to wipe out the Oil Infrastructure on the Island,” Trump said.

He warned that the decision could change if Iran interferes with maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

“However, should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision,” he said.

Kharg Island’s Strategic Role in Iran’s Oil Exports

Kharg Island is one of Iran’s most important energy facilities and handles the bulk of the country’s crude oil exports through terminals in the Persian Gulf.

Reports by The New York Times said the US strike targeted military facilities on the island, including sites storing missiles and naval mines, while avoiding damage to economic oil infrastructure.

Meanwhile, The Wall Street Journal noted that Kharg Island handles most of Iran’s crude shipments and is central to the country’s oil economy.

Trump also warned Iran’s leadership and military forces that they would be unable to defend against further US attacks.

“Iran has NO ability to defend anything that we want to attack — There is nothing they can do about it!” he said.

He reiterated Washington’s position that Iran must not develop nuclear weapons.

“Iran will NEVER have a nuclear weapon, nor will it have the ability to threaten the United States of America, the Middle East or, for that matter, the World!” Trump said.

He also urged Iran’s military and authorities to halt hostilities.

“Iran’s Military, and all others involved with this Terrorist Regime, would be wise to lay down their arms, and save what’s left of their country, which isn’t much!” he added.

Also Read: US Deploys Marines, Warships To Middle East As Iran Threatens Strait Of Hormuz Shipping