U.S. conducts massive bombing of strategic Iran Island, Trump says
· Axios
President Trump said the U.S. military conducted a massive strike on Kharg Island in Iran - the center of the country's oil exports.
Why it matters: The strategic Island hosts Iran key oil export facilities. 80-90 percent of Iranian oil is exported from the Island.
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- The White House has been considering a ground operation to take over the island as one of many options presented by the Pentagon ahead of the war with Iran.
- The strike was a "shot across the bow" by Trump to signal to the Iranians they should stop closing the Strait of Hormuz which has dramatically disrupted the global oil market.
- Trump made clear in a post on Truth Social that the oil facilities on the island were not targeted this time, but warned they will be if Iran doesn't stop its attacks on ships in the Strait.
What he is saying: "Moments ago, at my direction, the United States Central Command executed one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East, and totally obliterated every MILITARY target in Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island," Trump wrote.
- "For reasons of decency, I have chosen NOT to wipe out the Oil Infrastructure on the Island. However, should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision," he added.
- Trump called on the members of the Iranian military to lay down their arms, "and save what’s left of their country, which isn’t much!"
Go deeper: Hegseth claims Iran's supreme leader is "wounded and likely disfigured"