Introduction Early morning developments from the Persian Gulf suggest a major escalation in U.S.–Iran tensions after reported American strikes on Iran’s strategic Kharg Island. Markets reacted immediately, oil prices surged, and security analysts began discussing the possibility of wider regional instability. Former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly issued strong warnings to Iran alongside the strikes, signaling that further escalation could follow if shipping disruptions continue in the Strait of Hormuz. Kharg Island is not just another military target—it is the backbone of Iran’s oil exports and a critical node in global energy supply chains. Any instability there affects not only the Middle East but also Asia, Europe, and especially energy-dependent economies like India. So what exactly happened—and what comes next? Background / Context: Why Kharg Island Matters So Much Kharg Island sits in the Persian Gulf and handles roughly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports , maki...