In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing US-Iran conflict, American forces launched precision airstrikes on Iran’s strategic Kharg Island, a critical hub for the country’s oil exports, overnight.
US President Donald Trump announced the operation, stating that US forces “totally obliterated every military target” on the island, including naval mine storage, missile bunkers, and other installations, while deliberately sparing the vital oil infrastructure.
In a social media post, Trump described the raid as “one of the most powerful bombing raids in the history of the Middle East.” He added, “I have chosen NOT to wipe out the oil infrastructure on the island… for reasons of decency.” However, he issued a stern warning: if Iran or any other entity disrupts the free and safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, he would “immediately reconsider this decision”.
Kharg Island handles approximately 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports. Iran, OPEC’s third-largest producer, contributes around 4.5% of global oil supply, producing roughly 3.3 million barrels of crude daily plus 1.3 million barrels of condensate and other liquids.
Trump reportedly shared video footage of the strikes, showing plumes of smoke rising from targeted military sites.
Meanwhile, in a suspected retaliatory move, a missile struck a helipad inside the heavily fortified US Embassy compound in Baghdad’s Green Zone on Saturday. Smoke was seen billowing from the premises, causing panic in the area. Iraqi security sources confirmed the attack, though no immediate casualties or detailed damage assessments were released by US officials. The embassy, one of America’s largest diplomatic facilities, has faced repeated threats from Iran-aligned militias amid the broader conflict.
This incident follows recent claims by the Iraqi Islamic Resistance offering bounties on US personnel and alleging the downing of an American aircraft.
The twin developments underscore rising tensions, with fears of further disruptions to global energy markets and regional stability.
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