Trump threatens to strike Iran's Kharg Island again, says 'I'll knock the hell out of it'

President Trump threatened to strike Iran's Kharg Island again during an impromptu phone call with PBS News, stating 'I told them openly — I'll knock the hell out of it.' This followed a U.S. attack on March 9, 2026 that destroyed military facilities on the strategic island, which handles approximately 90% of Iran's oil exports. Trump also told NBC News the U.S. may hit the island 'a few more times just for fun,' while claiming to have deliberately avoided oil infrastructure. The threats came amid escalating tensions over freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, with Trump warning of immediate retaliation if Iran interferes with shipping. The president characterized the previous strike as 'one of the most powerful bombing raids in the history of the Middle East.' The threats drew international concern about potential regional destabilization and oil market disruption.

"I told them openly — I'll knock the hell out of it." — During impromptu phone call with PBS News regarding potential future strikes on Iran's Kharg Island