U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday said taking control of Iran’s oil resources remains “an option,” drawing comparisons to what he described as a successful U.S. arrangement in Venezuela following efforts to unseat Nicolás Maduro.
Speaking during a cabinet meeting, Trump told reporters that Washington could consider asserting control over Iran’s vast oil reserves, suggesting such a move could yield economic benefits for the United States.
“It’s an option,” he said, adding that the U.S. had done “very well” with Venezuela’s oil. He did not provide details on how such a strategy would be implemented in Iran.
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The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran fueling global concerns over energy security and regional stability. Iran, a key member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), holds some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves, making any potential disruption or external control of its resources a matter of international significance.
Trump’s comparison to Venezuela references U.S. efforts to back opposition forces and impose sanctions on Maduro’s government, alongside moves to channel oil revenues through alternative structures. However, the situation in Iran differs significantly, given its geopolitical position, military capabilities and alliances across the region.
As of now, the White House has not outlined any formal plan regarding Iran’s oil sector, and it remains unclear whether Trump’s comments signal a concrete policy direction or are part of broader strategic messaging amid the ongoing crisis.
