U.S. President Donald Trump said that the United States would deliver a severe blow to Iran, claiming that much of the country’s military and defensive capabilities had already been destroyed. He later added that “a much bigger and much more powerful bombing” would take place that evening. According to reports, Trump also stated that the U.S. would take control of Kharg Island and other key oil infrastructure sites.
Trump’s statement on his Truth Social account read:
“The United States will strike Iran very hard tonight. Much of Iran’s navy, air force, radar systems, anti-aircraft defenses, and other forms of defensive and offensive capability have already been destroyed.”
“We Will Take Kharg Island”
Trump continued:
“At some point in the not-too-distant future, we will take Kharg Island and other oil infrastructure points and assume total control of their oil and gas markets, much like we have with Venezuela.”
“It Is Working Out Great for Venezuela”
He added:
“This arrangement is producing excellent results for both Venezuela and the United States. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”
“A Much Bigger Bombing Is Coming”
In a later interview with Fox News, Trump reportedly said:
“There will be more bombing tonight — bigger and more powerful than before.”
Background
Kharg Island (also spelled Khark Island) is Iran’s most important oil export hub and handles a significant share of the country’s crude oil exports. Recent statements by Trump regarding the island have drawn widespread international attention amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran.