Donald Trump stated negotiations with Iran are progressing “extremely well,” while also contemplating a U.S. military occupation of Khark Island and seizing Iranian oil.
Trump Optimistic on Iran Talks, Hints at Military Options
During a conversation with reporters on Air Force One on March 29th, Trump assessed that “direct and indirect” negotiations with Iran are going “extremely well” and expressed hope for an agreement soon. He stated Iran has largely agreed to a proposed plan, offering concessions on 15 points.
Trump also noted Iran allowed 10 tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz last week and agreed to allow another 20, citing this as a gesture of goodwill.
Key Iranian Figures and Regime Change
In an interview with the “Financial Times,” Trump revealed that Mohammad Ghalibaf, chairman of the Iranian parliament, is likely the main negotiator for Iran. He also claimed that Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Chamenei, is seriously injured but alive.
Trump reiterated his belief that a “regime change” has occurred in Iran following the killing of several high-ranking officials, describing the new rulers as “very reasonable.”
Khark Island and Control of Iranian Oil
Despite his optimism, Trump acknowledged that “you never know with Iran.” When questioned about sending ground troops, he stated, “we have many options.” He admitted considering a U.S. military occupation of Khark Island, a key center for Iranian oil exports, and expressed support for the U.S. “taking” Iranian oil.
Trump asserted U.S. forces could easily seize the oil, though it might require occupation. He added, “Maybe we’ll take the island, maybe we won’t. We have many options…That would also mean we’d have to stay there for a while.”
Strategic Importance of Khark Island and Threat to Strait of Hormuz
Khark Island handles 90% of Iran’s oil exports. The U.S. attacked military installations on the island on March 13th. Trump warned that if Iran imposes fees on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, he will “do whatever [he has] to do,” stating the U.S. could close the strait “in two minutes.”
U.S. Military Buildup in the Middle East
According to the “New York Times,” several hundred special forces soldiers arrived in the Middle East on Sunday. Prior to this, an expeditionary marine unit and soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division were deployed. The “Washington Post” reported the U.S. is planning possible land operations lasting several weeks, though a decision has not been made.