Trump eyes Iran oil, may occupy Kharg

US President Donald Trump has again ratcheted up pressure on Iran, saying the US could ‘seize Iran’s oil’ and not ruling out taking control of the strategic island of Kharg. It is through the island that most of Iran’s oil exports pass, meaning such a move would have global implications.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Trump acknowledged that such an operation would entail a longer presence of US forces in the region and carry the risk of additional casualties.

Meanwhile, Washington is already bolstering its troop presence in the Middle East by thousands of soldiers as oil prices soar.

Trump said indirect negotiations with Iran are progressing and that a deal could come relatively quickly. He also spoke of ‘regime change’ in Tehran and hinted at a weakening of the current leadership.

Iran, however, rejects the claims and insists that its leaders are safe.

(pir)