Trump Warns of “Very Hard” Iran Strikes Tonight, Signals Move to Seize Oil Assets in Venezuelan-Style Plan

Trump Threatens Escalation in Iran Conflict, Signals Strikes and Future Oil Asset Seizure

Amid ongoing tit-for-tat military strikes in the Middle East that have further weakened an already fragile ceasefire, US President Donald Trump on Thursday warned of additional military action against Iran, saying the United States would strike the country “very hard tonight” and claiming Iran’s military capabilities have been largely destroyed.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the US would carry out further strikes while also suggesting long-term plans to take control of key Iranian oil and gas infrastructure, including Kharg Island, a major export hub.

“The United States will be hitting Iran … VERY HARD TONIGHT,” he wrote, adding that Iran’s navy, air force, radar systems and air defences were “gone,” alongside most of its offensive capabilities.

He further stated that, in the future, the US could move to “take” Kharg Island and other energy infrastructure points, comparing the idea to US involvement in Venezuela’s oil sector.

Strategic Importance of Kharg Island

Kharg Island is Iran’s primary crude export terminal, handling a majority of the country’s oil shipments. Any disruption to its operations could have significant implications for global energy markets.

Trump also reiterated similar remarks in an interview with Fox News, saying he preferred taking control of the island but questioned domestic political support for such an operation.

Continued Military Activity and Regional Escalation

The comments come as US and Iranian forces continue exchanging strikes across the region, with both sides targeting military and strategic infrastructure. The US has carried out attacks on Iranian surveillance and air defence systems, while Iran has responded with strikes on US-linked military installations in the Gulf.

Washington has described its operations as pressure tactics aimed at forcing Tehran back to negotiations, while warning that further escalation remains possible if Iran does not agree to US terms.

Ongoing Diplomatic Channels

Despite the escalating rhetoric and military activity, indirect diplomatic communications between Washington and Tehran continue.

Reports suggest negotiators have made limited progress toward a framework understanding, though major disagreements remain over frozen Iranian assets abroad and conditions for any potential agreement. Iran is seeking access to billions in blocked funds, while the US reportedly wants any release to be gradual and tied to humanitarian use.

Both sides remain far apart on core issues, even as officials acknowledge the conflict is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain.