Iran has warned the United States against any possible attempt to seize Kharg Island, a strategically important oil facility, amid renewed threats of military escalation from US President Donald Trump. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Washington would face consequences for any such action, adding that people in Iran were prepared to respond to a potential ground operation. His remarks came as tensions between the two countries continued to rise.

Baghaei said any US forces attempting a ground invasion would encounter strong resistance, claiming that there were people in Iran "counting down the minutes" for their arrival. Kharg Island, located about 55 kilometres off Iran’s coast in Bushehr province, plays a central role in the country's energy sector. The island handles a major share of Iran’s oil exports and has facilities capable of accommodating large crude oil tankers.

The Iranian spokesperson also addressed the interim agreement signed between Tehran and Washington, saying the document was clear and contained no ambiguity. He stated that the memorandum of understanding consists of 14 clauses and rejected any suggestion that the agreement lacked clarity. Baghaei further reiterated Iran’s position on the Strait of Hormuz, saying future management of the strategic waterway would be handled through discussions with Oman and other regional countries.

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The warning followed reports that Trump has considered expanding US military actions against Iran, including options involving intensified airstrikes and possible operations targeting strategic locations. Reports have suggested that Kharg Island and other sensitive sites could be among potential targets under discussion. A seizure of Kharg Island would give US forces control over a key point in Iran’s oil export network but could also expose them to missile and drone attacks.

Security experts have noted that while the United States has significant military capabilities in the Middle East, holding and controlling a captured location would present major challenges. Analysts said a temporary military operation would be different from maintaining a long-term presence, which would require continuous resources and protection. With thousands of US personnel already stationed across the region, any move against Iranian territory could trigger wider regional consequences.

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