Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Jun 11: US President Donald Trump on Thursday suggested that he would prefer targeting Iran's key oil export hub, Kharg Island, but expressed uncertainty over whether Americans would support a major escalation in the ongoing conflict.

Speaking in an interview with Fox News, Trump said his preferred option would be to take control of Kharg Island, which serves as a critical centre for Iran's oil exports.

“We are talking to them and all, but you know, look, my preference has always been — take Kharg Island. My preference would be that. I don't know that America has the stomach for it,” Trump said.

The US President also indicated that American forces would carry out fresh strikes against Iran later on Thursday, suggesting that the attacks would be larger and more powerful than previous operations.

“There will be more bombing tonight. It will be bigger — bigger, more powerful,” he said during the "Fox & Friends" programme.

Despite signalling intensified military action, Trump said diplomatic engagement with Iran was continuing alongside military operations.

He added that while additional strikes were planned, he would prefer to avoid targeting civilian infrastructure such as bridges and power plants.

The remarks come amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, with both sides engaged in a series of military confrontations that have raised concerns about a wider regional conflict.

Kharg Island is regarded as one of Iran's most strategically important energy facilities, handling a significant portion of the country's crude oil exports. Any military action targeting the island could have major implications for global energy markets and regional security.

Trump's latest comments underscore the delicate balance between military pressure and diplomatic negotiations as efforts to reach a broader settlement with Tehran continue.