'Most powerful bombing campaign ever conducted; Iran's 'crown jewel' Kharg Island totally obliterated'

TEHRAN: US President Donald Trump claimed the US military has obliterated Kharg Island, which is known as Iran's economic backbone. Trump also threatened to destroy the infrastructure in Kharg if necessary. Kharg handles 90 per cent of Iran's crude oil exports.

"US Central Command has conducted the most powerful bombing campaign ever conducted in the Middle East. All military facilities in Iran's Kharg have been destroyed," Trump wrote on social media.

Trump added that he had instructed not to destroy the island's infrastructure, but that he would not hesitate to reverse that decision if Iran or anyone else were to obstruct the smooth passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz.

Kharg Island is located 30 kilometres from Bushehr province. Experts believe that any move in this area, which is one-third the size of Manhattan, could have very serious consequences. It is reported that the US attack on Kharg will significantly affect Iran's crude oil exports, and this will further worsen the situation in Hormuz. Trump said that the US military will escort oil ships in Hormuz and that trade will be restored. However, as the crisis worsens, gas prices are also soaring in the United States.