Trump Resurfaces Decades-Old Call to Seize Iranian Oil Amid Escalating Conflict
United States President Donald Trump has reignited a controversial stance by sharing a 1987 interview where he advocated for the seizure of Iranian oil installations, as the ongoing war with Iran intensifies regional tensions. The video, originally from a December 1987 segment on ABC's 20/20 with journalist Barbara Walters, features a 41-year-old Trump discussing US strategy during the Iran-Iraq War era, when Iran targeted oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.
Historical Comments Echo Current Policy Debates
In the clip, Trump argued against perceived American weakness, proposing a direct and aggressive response to Iranian actions. "Why couldn't we go in and take over some of their oil, which is along the sea?" Trump said. When questioned about the method and risks, including potential Marine involvement or escalation to war, he replied, "You go in... you take the oil... Let Iran fight their own war. You take their oil." He emphasized that trouble arises from weakness, dismissing concerns about Soviet intervention at the time by stating, "I don't think they would [intervene]."
Trump further elaborated, "The next time Iran attacks this country, go in and grab one of their big oil installations, and I mean grab it and keep it, and get back your losses, because this country has lost plenty because of Iran." These comments have gained renewed relevance as Trump recently indicated a preference for similar actions in the current conflict.
Current Remarks and Strategic Implications
In an interview with the Financial Times on Sunday, Trump reiterated his stance, saying his "preference would be to take the oil" in Iran, drawing parallels with US plans in Venezuela to retain control over oil sectors indefinitely after capturing leader Nicolás Maduro earlier this year. He specifically mentioned targeting Kharg Island, Tehran's main oil export hub, through which the bulk of Iran's oil exports are routed.
Trump remarked, "To be honest with you, my favourite thing is to take the oil in Iran but some stupid people back in the US say: 'why are you doing that?' But they’re stupid people." His statements come as the US-Israel war with Iran has plunged the region deeper into crisis, contributing to a sharp surge in global oil prices. Brent crude climbed above $116 per barrel on Monday in Asian trading, nearing its highest level since the conflict began.
Military Buildup and Regional Deployment
The US has been reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East, with the Pentagon ordering the deployment of approximately 10,000 personnel trained for ground operations, including seizing and holding territory. Recent movements include:
- Roughly 3,500 troops arriving on Friday, including about 2,200 Marines.
- Another 2,200 Marines en route.
- Thousands more from the 82nd Airborne Division expected to join.
This buildup underscores the potential for escalated military actions, aligning with Trump's historical and current advocacy for aggressive measures against Iranian oil assets. The resurgence of these decades-old comments highlights a consistent thread in Trump's foreign policy approach, emphasizing strength and resource control as responses to geopolitical threats.
