U.S. forces have carried out a major aerial assault on military installations on Kharg Island, a strategic hub in the Persian Gulf. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the strikes on Friday, describing the operation as one of the "most powerful" in Middle East history.
The attack targeted military infrastructure on the island, which is often referred to as Iran’s "crown jewel" because it handles nearly 90% of the country’s crude oil exports. While military sites were "obliterated," President Trump stated he has deliberately spared the island’s oil infrastructure for now.
"For reasons of decency, I have chosen NOT to wipe out the Oil Infrastructure on the Island," Trump posted on Truth Social. However, he warned that this decision remains conditional on the "free and safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz."
The strikes come amid a 14-day escalation of hostilities between the U.S.-Israel coalition and Iran. Following the attack, the Iranian military warned that any future strikes on its energy sector would trigger retaliatory hits against regional oil companies cooperating with the United States.
In a separate statement, the U.S. President called on Iranian forces to "lay down their arms," claiming the regime’s ability to defend its territory has been severely compromised.
