Washington, Mar 14 (V7N) — Donald Trump, President of the United States, has claimed that US forces carried out a major bombing operation on Kharg Island in Iran.

In a post on Truth Social shortly after boarding Air Force One for Florida, Trump said the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) had conducted “one of the most powerful bombing raids in the history of the Middle East.”

According to Trump, all military targets on Kharg Island — often described as Iran’s “crown jewel” — were completely destroyed during the operation. However, he said the United States deliberately avoided targeting the island’s oil infrastructure.

Trump warned that the decision could change if Iran or any other actor attempts to block the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. “If Iran or anyone else tries to obstruct free navigation there, I will immediately reconsider this decision,” he said.

The US president also called on Iran to surrender its weapons, stating that it must do so “to save what remains of the country.”

Why Kharg Island Is Important

Kharg Island, located about 15 nautical miles off Iran’s coast, is roughly five miles long and serves as a critical hub for the country’s oil exports. Often referred to as Iran’s “oil lifeline,” the island handles around 90 percent of the nation’s exportable crude oil.

Large oil tankers transport crude from Kharg Island through the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz to international markets, including China, which is the largest buyer of Iranian oil.

Analysts warn that any disruption to operations at Kharg Island could severely impact the economy of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Source: BBC

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