What is Iran’s Kharg Island and what could happen if the US attacks it?

Kharg Island plays a major role in Iran’s economy, serving as the country’s primary hub for crude oil exports.

Dubbed the “Orphan Pearl of the Persian Gulf,” Kharg Island is located about 15 nautical miles off Iran’s coast.

Nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports pass through the facility on the island.

Reports indicate that the island can store up to 30 million barrels of crude oil and currently holds around 18 million barrels.

Amid rising geopolitical tensions, there have been speculations that the United States could target Kharg Island as part of efforts to pressure Iran, particularly regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The speculation has been fueled by statements from Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid, who said, “Israel must destroy all of Iran’s oil field and energy industry on Kharg Island; that is what will cripple Iran’s economy and topple the regime.”

Some Republican lawmakers have also expressed similar views. U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham was quoted saying, “Keep it up for a few more weeks… take Kharg Island… control that island, let this regime die on a vine.”

If such an attack were to happen, analysts say it could severely disrupt Iran’s energy exports and global oil flows.

Data from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) shows Iran is among the major crude oil producers, with China as one of its largest buyers. Any disruption to Kharg Island could therefore have ripple effects on global energy markets and potentially worsen an already volatile oil supply situation.

Kharg Island’s strategic importance also means it would likely be heavily defended. Any military approach would require forces to navigate the Strait of Hormuz and the northern Persian Gulf, areas that could be contested by Iranian drones, missiles, and naval defenses.

Experts caution that an attack could further escalate tensions between the United States and Iran.

Retired U.S. Navy Admiral James Stavridis noted in a Bloomberg column that there is no guarantee Iran would reopen the Strait of Hormuz even if Kharg Island were struck.

U.S. President Donald Trump has not confirmed any plans involving Kharg Island. Meanwhile, Iranian officials have issued warnings of retaliation.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said, “Based on intelligence reports, Iran’s enemies are preparing to occupy one of its islands… Our forces are monitoring all enemy movements, and should they take any actions, all of that regional state’s vital infrastructure will be targeted.”

As of now, the situation remains speculative, but analysts say Kharg Island’s strategic role in global oil supply makes it a critical flashpoint in any potential escalation.—Vince Angelo Ferreras/MCG, GMA Integrated News