US eyes seizing Iran's oil lifeline — but it may not cripple Tehran

U.S. officials and analysts are weighing whether seizing Iran's main oil export hub could deal a crippling financial blow — but experts warn the high-risk move may not shut off Tehran's revenue as quickly or completely as expected.

Analysts say U.S. planners face a high-stakes decision: whether seizing Kharg Island would actually disrupt Iran's oil revenue or leave key export flows intact while exposing American forces to sustained attack. Options under discussion range from interdicting tankers at sea to striking export infrastructure from the air, approaches some argue could pressure Tehran's finances without putting troops on the ground.