Revision History

President Trump has publicly floated seizing Iran's Kharg Island, which handles over 90% of the country's oil exports, even as diplomatic channels remain partially open. The proposal — which would require a contested amphibious operation, indefinite military occupation, and would likely violate international law — has alarmed Gulf allies, rattled oil markets past $98 per barrel, and raised questions about whether maximalist threats serve as negotiating leverage or accelerate a wider regional war.