Trump Signals Possible U.S. Seizure Of Iranian Oil As War Continues
President Donald Trump indicated that the United States has considered the possibility of taking control of Iranian oil resources as the military conflict with Tehran continues, though he stopped short of endorsing the idea outright.
During a phone interview with NBC News, Trump acknowledged that the concept has been discussed within policy circles as part of broader efforts to weaken Iran’s ability to fund military activities and threaten American allies in the Middle East.
“Certainly, people have talked about it,” Trump said, suggesting that the idea remains under consideration but has not yet become official policy.
Venezuela Cited as a Precedent
Trump pointed to recent U.S. actions involving Nicolás Maduro as an example of how such a strategy might unfold.
Following a U.S. raid in January that resulted in Maduro’s capture, the administration moved quickly to secure access to Venezuela’s energy resources. In his State of the Union address earlier this year, Trump claimed the United States had already obtained more than 80 million barrels of oil from Venezuela.
Referencing that situation, Trump suggested similar discussions have occurred regarding Iran.
“Look at Venezuela,” he said. “People have thought about it, but it’s too soon to talk about that.”
Potential Tensions With China
Any attempt by the United States to seize Iranian oil could significantly escalate geopolitical tensions, particularly with China, which currently purchases a large share of Iran’s crude exports.
Analysts estimate that around 80% of Iran’s exported oil goes to China, making Beijing one of the Iranian government’s most important economic partners.
Because China is also considered Washington’s primary strategic rival, a move targeting Iranian oil could deepen tensions between the two global powers.
War Sends Oil Prices Surging
The ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has already had major effects on global energy markets.
Oil prices climbed above $100 per barrel as the fighting escalated, reflecting fears that disruptions in the Middle East could threaten global supply.
Iran ranks as the world’s ninth-largest oil producer and accounts for roughly 5% of global oil output, meaning any major disruption to its energy sector can ripple through international markets.
The broader war has also sparked concerns about shipping routes and supply stability across the Persian Gulf region.
Trump Addresses Other Issues During Interview
During the same interview, Trump touched on several other topics, including domestic legislation and developments inside Iran.
The president said his current focus is on securing passage of the SAVE America Act, a bill that would require proof of citizenship to register to vote nationwide. The measure has already passed the House of Representatives but faces significant hurdles in the Senate, where at least 60 votes are needed to overcome a filibuster.
When asked whether Congress would approve the legislation, Trump said the outcome remains uncertain.
“I don’t know,” he said, adding that little progress has been made on the bill so far.
Criticism of Iran’s New Supreme Leader
Trump also criticized Iran’s decision to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei as the country’s new supreme leader following the death of his father, Ali Khamenei.
According to Trump, the choice could create instability within Iran’s leadership structure.
“I think they made a big mistake,” the president said, adding that he was unsure whether Mojtaba Khamenei’s leadership would last.
Tribute to Fallen U.S. Service Members
Trump also spoke about attending a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base, where the remains of six American service members killed during the Iran conflict were returned to the United States.
Reflecting on the ceremony, Trump said the fallen troops represented the best of the country.
“They are great people,” he said. “It’s always tough.”
