President Trump said the possibility of the U.S. taking control of Iran's Kharg Island is not currently a priority, although the option is still being considered amid rising tensions in the Persian Gulf region.
In an interview aired Friday morning with host Brian Kilmeade on Fox News Radio, President Trump said:
“It’s not high on the list, but it’s one of many courses of action, and I can change my mind in seconds.”
Kharg Island is located about 16 miles (roughly 26 km) off the Iranian coast in the Persian Gulf. It is a vital oil hub where approximately 90% of Iran's oil exports are loaded onto tankers.
President Trump remains open to the possibility of military intervention as Iran continues to block most international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway for the world's energy transport.
Tensions in the region have caused global oil prices to surge. By midday Friday, Brent crude oil surpassed $101 per barrel on international markets.
Analysts suggest that any military move involving Kharg Island or the Strait of Hormuz could directly impact global energy supplies.
