OilMarket – Trump Says US Avoided Iran’s Key Oil Export Facilities During Strikes
OilMarket –US President Donald Trump has said American military operations against Iran deliberately avoided damaging the country’s major oil export infrastructure on Kharg Island, arguing that preserving the facility was necessary to prevent disruption to the global economy.
Trump Explains Decision to Protect Oil Infrastructure
Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Trump said US forces carried out multiple strikes targeting Kharg Island but intentionally left its oil installations untouched. According to the president, he instructed military commanders to avoid any action that could interfere with global energy supplies.
Trump recalled telling military officials to strike every designated objective except the oil facilities, stressing that even limited damage to the export terminal could have far-reaching consequences for international markets. He described the island’s oil infrastructure as an important component of the world’s energy system and said protecting it was in the broader economic interest.
Although he acknowledged that the United States has the capability to target those facilities if required, Trump indicated that such action is not currently under consideration and remains an unlikely option.
No Clear Answer on Possible Control of Kharg Island
During the interview, Fox News correspondent Trey Yingst referred to remarks Trump made decades ago suggesting the United States could seize Kharg Island if American personnel or vessels were attacked.
When asked whether he still held that view, Trump declined to provide a direct answer, saying it would not be wise to publicly discuss future military intentions. However, he suggested that if Iran’s military capacity were significantly weakened, taking control of the strategically important island could become a possibility.
His comments stopped short of announcing any formal policy but left open several military options depending on future developments in the conflict.
Ground Operation Still Not Ruled Out
Trump also refused to dismiss the possibility of a limited ground operation. While avoiding a firm commitment, he said there are situations in which ground forces may become necessary.
He added that other forces could carry out such operations on behalf of the United States but did not identify which countries or military partners he was referring to. The remarks offered little clarity about whether Washington is coordinating with regional allies on potential future actions.
Trump Claims Iran’s Military Has Suffered Heavy Damage
The president argued that the ongoing military campaign has caused extensive damage to Iran’s military infrastructure. According to Trump, the destruction already inflicted would require approximately two decades for Iran to rebuild if military operations ended immediately.
He also maintained that military pressure remains the most effective way to bring Iran to the negotiating table. In his view, meaningful diplomacy can only take place after demonstrating overwhelming military strength.
Trump further stated that the air campaign would continue for as long as he considers necessary. While acknowledging that Iran still retains some military capability, he claimed its ability to continue fighting has been significantly reduced.
Why Kharg Island Matters to Global Energy Markets
Kharg Island, located in the Persian Gulf, serves as Iran’s primary crude oil export terminal and plays a central role in the country’s energy trade. A large share of Iran’s oil shipments passes through the island, making it one of the most strategically significant energy facilities in the region.
Any disruption to operations there could have immediate consequences for international oil supplies, potentially affecting crude prices across global markets. Countries that rely heavily on imported oil, including India and several other Asian economies, could experience higher energy costs if exports from the island were interrupted.
By emphasizing the protection of Kharg Island’s oil infrastructure, Trump framed the US military approach as one that sought to balance strategic objectives with broader concerns about stability in global energy markets.