- Kharg Island, which hosts Iran's main oil export terminal, has emerged as a key focus in the month-long conflict involving the United States and Israel.
- Strikes on Kharg's oil infrastructure or a ground invasion would severely curb Iran's oil exports, a crucial revenue source, and could lead to significant regional escalation and further increases in global oil prices.
- A US occupation of the island would place American troops just 33 kilometres off Iran's coast, making them vulnerable to the country's arsenal of drones and missiles.
- Other strategically important islands near the vital Strait of Hormuz, including Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunb, are also considered potential targets.
- Donald Trump previously stated that military assets on Kharg were 'obliterated' but oil infrastructure was spared, warning of reconsideration if Iran continued to disrupt traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
