Seizing Kharg Island? How The US Could Attempt A Strategic Takeover

Last Updated:March 31, 2026, 09:16 IST

US weighs airborne and amphibious options to seize Irans Kharg Island oil hub, aims for leverage on shipping and nuclear talks, experts warn of escalation and global oil shocks

The United States is weighing military options to target Iran’s Kharg Island, a critical oil export hub, as tensions escalate in the Gulf. Experts say while capturing the island may be feasible, sustaining control could prove far more challenging amid Iran’s military reach. Follow Live Updates

Military Pathways: Airborne, Amphibious Or A Joint Assault

US forces are likely to consider three primary approaches—an airborne assault, an amphibious landing, or a combined operation.

The Pentagon has begun positioning paratroopers and Marines in the region, with the Soufan Center noting the build-up “sets the stage for a potential ground offensive in Iran."

Former US Central Command chief General Joseph Votel said the operation may not require large numbers. “On a small island like Kharg, I imagine you’d need a battalion of Marines… around 800 to 1,000 men," he said.

Also Read: Iran Approves Strait Of Hormuz Plan With Tolls For Vessels, Bans US, Israeli Ships

However, analysts caution that proximity to Iranian defences could complicate any operation. The island lies close to Bushehr, a key military centre that supports Iran’s defence of the northern Gulf.

Strategic Calculus: Pressure, Leverage And Risks Of Escalation

Washington’s endgame remains unclear, with possibilities ranging from forcing Iran to reopen shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz to extracting concessions on its nuclear and missile programmes.

Capturing Kharg could provide leverage in negotiations, given Iran’s dependence on oil exports.

However, experts warn the move may not ease shipping disruptions, as Iran controls multiple strategic points in the Strait.

There is also a risk of escalation if Tehran refuses to concede. Analysts say any further targeting of oil infrastructure could push global prices higher and trigger prolonged disruption in maritime traffic.

Also Read: Pete Hegseth’s Broker Looked To Invest In Defence Fund Before Iran Attack, Pentagon Denies Report

Why Kharg Matters: Iran’s Oil Lifeline And Military Asset

Kharg Island handles around 90% of Iran’s crude exports, making it central to the country’s economy.

Situated about 30 km off Iran’s coast, the island hosts major oil terminals, storage tanks and pipeline infrastructure, along with military installations.

US forces have already targeted parts of the island. On March 13, Central Command said it struck more than 90 Iranian military targets on Kharg while avoiding oil facilities.

Also Read: 12 Times Trump Said The Iran War Would End And Why It Hasn’t Happened Yet

Recent intelligence indicates Iran has reinforced the island with additional troops, air defence systems and mines, highlighting both its strategic importance and the challenges any US operation would face.

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