India, April 7 -- Iran's critical oil hub, Kharg Island, came under attack on Tuesday, according to Iranian outlet Mehr News, marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict between United States and Iran.

Described as Tehran's "crown jewel" of oil infrastructure, the small but strategically vital island was reportedly hit by several strikes, placing it at the centre of the month-long military confrontation that has already disrupted global energy markets.

Located in the Persian Gulf, Kharg Island is responsible for handling nearly 90% of Iran's oil exports. Its importance stems from both geography and infrastructure, much of Iran's coastline is too shallow to accommodate large oil tankers, making the island indispensable to its ener...