WASHINGTON/TEHRAN – U.S. President Donald Trump indicated on March 29 and 30, 2026, a preference for seizing Iran's oil, including the key export hub of Kharg Island. He stated his desire to "take the oil in Iran" and suggested Kharg Island could be "very easily" seized by the U.S. amidst an ongoing U.S.-Israel military operation against Iran.
Trump asserted that the U.S.-Israel war, which began on February 28, 2026, had already achieved "regime change" in Iran. He reported ongoing direct and indirect talks with Iran, claiming Tehran has signaled readiness to comply with most U.S. demands and that a deal could be reached "very soon." As a gesture, Trump stated Iran would allow 20 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz starting March 31, describing it as a "sign of respect." The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical choke point for global energy trade.
Concurrently, military actions continue. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported on March 30 that Iran's heavy water production plant in Khondab was no longer operational after an Israeli strike. Further Israeli attacks targeted regime sites across Tehran and a petrochemical facility. In a retaliatory move, an Iranian strike on a power station in Kuwait killed an Indian worker and caused substantial damage to a building at the site. These developments highlight the escalating tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran.
ISN MEDIA
