The United States is reportedly exploring the option of occupying or blockading Kharg Island. The move is aimed at forcing Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by Axios, which cited four unnamed sources.

Officials hint at possible military steps

A senior US administration official said that President Donald Trump is determined to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.

“He (Trump) wants Hormuz open. If he has to take Kharg Island to make it happen, that’s going to happen. If he decides to have a coastal invasion, that’s going to happen. But that decision hasn’t been made.”

Another official stressed that the president would act in line with US interests.

“We’ve always had boots on the ground in conflicts under every president, including Trump… the president is going to do what’s right.”

Strategic importance of Kharg Island

Kharg Island is a crucial part of Iran’s energy network. The island is about five miles long and lies around 16 miles off the Iranian coast.

It handles nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil and condensate exports. Pipelines connect it to major oil fields such as Ahvaz, Marun, and Gachsaran.

The island also has deep-water jetties, allowing large supertankers to load oil directly—something many mainland ports cannot support. Its storage capacity is about 30 million barrels, which can sustain nearly ten days of exports.

Oil facilities largely spared so far

In the initial two weeks of the US-Israel conflict with Iran, Kharg Island’s oil infrastructure remained mostly untouched. However, US forces did target military installations on the island last week.

President Trump has warned that this approach could change. He said energy facilities may be targeted if Iran or its allies disrupt safe shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

This vital route has already seen disruptions due to Iranian attacks on commercial vessels, leading to a rise in global oil prices.

Global impact of any disruption

Iran produces about 3.3 million barrels of crude oil and 1.3 million barrels of condensate daily. This makes up roughly 4.5% of global oil supply.

Any disruption at Kharg Island could have wide-ranging effects on global energy markets. Major importers, including India, could face supply and price pressures.

A key flashpoint in the conflict

Experts believe the island’s location and infrastructure make it a major strategic point. Control over Kharg Island could influence how the conflict unfolds in the coming days.