Trump Eyes Iran’s Oil Hub as Middle East Tensions Pivot Toward “Seizure”

​WASHINGTON – In a move that has sent shockwaves through global energy markets, President Donald J. Trump has signaled a potential shift in U.S. strategy toward a direct seizure of Iran’s oil infrastructure. In a wide-ranging interview with the Financial Times published Sunday, the President identified Kharg Island—the terminal responsible for 90% of Iran’s crude exports—as a primary target.

​”To be honest with you, my favorite thing is to take the oil in Iran,” Trump stated, dismissing domestic critics of the aggressive stance as “stupid people.”

​The President’s remarks come as the Pentagon ramps up its regional footprint, with an additional 3,500 troops, including 2,200 Marines and units from the 82nd Airborne Division, arriving in the Middle East. Trump suggested that capturing Kharg Island would be a simple military feat, asserting, “I don’t think they have any defense. We could take it very easily.”

​However, he acknowledged that such a move would necessitate a long-term commitment, noting, “It would also mean we had to be there for a while.”

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​A “Venezuela Model” for Tehran?

​Trump drew a direct parallel to recent U.S. actions in Venezuela, where Washington has sought “indefinite” control over oil assets following the capture of Nicolás Maduro in January. Analysts suggest this “resource-first” doctrine marks a significant departure from traditional regime-change strategies, focusing instead on the direct administration of energy nodes.

​The rhetoric has already impacted the pump. Brent crude prices surged past $116 per barrel in Monday morning trading, a 50% increase over the last month as markets price in the risk of a prolonged ground conflict.

​Diplomacy Under the Shadow of War

​Despite the bellicose talk of seizing territory, the President maintained that a diplomatic off-ramp remains viable. He confirmed that indirect negotiations, facilitated by Pakistani “emissaries,” are “progressing well.”

​According to Trump, Tehran has already shown “signs of respect” by doubling the number of oil tankers permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz to 20. He has set an April 6 deadline for Iran to accept a comprehensive deal or face intensified strikes on its remaining energy infrastructure.

​”We’ve got about 3,000 targets left—we’ve bombed 13,000 targets,” Trump said. “A deal could be made fairly quickly.”

​While the White House remains optimistic about a “quick deal,” the Pentagon is reportedly preparing for all contingencies, including high-risk missions to secure nearly 1,000 pounds of Iranian uranium to prevent further escalation.