Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) has called for U.S. Marines to seize Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export facility located approximately 20 miles off the Iranian coast. Speaking on Fox News, Graham invoked the World War II battle of Iwo Jima, stating "We did Iwo Jima, we can do this" while urging President Trump to "take Kharg Island."

Kharg Island serves as Iran's main oil export hub and represents a critical component of the country's petroleum infrastructure. The island's strategic importance in global energy markets makes it a significant target in discussions about potential military action against Iran.

However, security experts have expressed strong opposition to such military deployments. Joe Kent, former director of the National Counterterrorism Center, warned that deploying U.S. soldiers to Kharg Island would be a "disaster," according to comments he made to The Washington Post.

The discussions come amid broader tensions in the Middle East and considerations about potential U.S. military involvement in the region. Military analysts have noted that any deployment of Marines to open the Strait of Hormuz or target Iranian facilities could involve ground troops and carry risks of casualties and asymmetrical warfare.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical waterway for global oil shipments, with approximately one-fifth of the world's petroleum passing through the narrow passage. Any military action in the region could have significant implications for international energy markets and regional stability.