US Vice President Says Strike Hit Military Targets on Iran’s Kharg Island

Speaking on the matter, Vance said, “There was a plan to strike certain military targets on Kharg Island, and I believe we have successfully carried it out.” He stressed that the attack did not target energy facilities or civilian infrastructure.

The Vice President also indicated that the United States does not intend to strike Iran’s energy sector for now. “We will not target energy or infrastructure unless Iran presents a proposal acceptable to us—or fails to present any proposal at all,” he stated.

Vance further clarified that the recent strike aligns with the current administration’s policy and does not represent a broader escalation or change in strategic direction.

Kharg Island, located about 55 kilometers northwest of Bushehr port, is widely known as Iran’s primary oil export hub and holds immense strategic importance. The small coral island, covering roughly 22 square kilometers, is heavily guarded by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and is often referred to by Iranians as a “forbidden island,” accessible only with special authorization.

The island serves as the backbone of Iran’s economy, handling nearly 90% of the country’s crude oil exports. Approximately 950 million barrels of oil are shipped annually from Kharg Island, mainly to Asian markets, including China.

Its surrounding deep waters provide a natural advantage, allowing large oil tankers to dock efficiently. Oil from major fields such as Abuzar, Forouzan, and Doroud is transported to the island, processed, and then exported globally, according to Iran’s Petroleum Ministry.