US Conducts Military Strikes at Iranian Oil Facility on Kharg Island

US President Donald Trump has announced that US forces have bombed military installations on Iran’s Kharg Island, a critical oil export hub. The island is home to more than 90% of Iran’s oil exports. Trump stated that the bombing raids were “one of the most powerful” in Middle Eastern history.

Iran has responded by threatening to reduce US-linked oil facilities to “a pile of ashes” if oil structures on the island are targeted. The Iranian government cited sources indicating that over 15 explosions were heard on Kharg Island during the US attacks, targeting air defenses, a naval base, and airport facilities. However, no damage was reported to oil infrastructure.

The US president stated that he had chosen not to target oil infrastructure on the island, but would reconsider if Iran or others interfere with the free passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also warned that any further action could lead to a significant escalation of the conflict.

Iran’s Fars news agency reported thick smoke rising from the island following the US attacks. Al Jazeera correspondent Mohamed Vall described potential Iranian retaliatory attacks on Gulf oil facilities as a “catastrophic scenario” for the region and the global oil industry.

In response to the escalating tensions, the US has announced plans to deploy additional military personnel to the Middle East. A Marine Expeditionary Unit and an amphibious assault ship are being sent to the region, according to a US official. The deployment does not indicate an imminent ground operation but rather a gradual increase in the US military presence.

The conflict between the US and Iran has resulted in significant losses, with at least 1,444 people killed and 18,551 injured by US-Israeli attacks since February 28.

Source: Al Jazeera