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The Pentagon is developing military options for a “final strike” on Iran, which could include both a broad bombing campaign and the use of ground forces, Axios reported, citing US officials and sources involved in the internal discussions.
According to these sources, such an escalation is considered more likely if diplomatic negotiations do not yield results and especially if the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains blocked.
Some US officials argue that a show of force could increase the pressure on negotiations or give President Donald Trump the opportunity to declare a political victory. However, the sources emphasize that the development of the conflict also depends on Iran's response, while many of the scenarios carry the risk of prolonging the crisis and further escalation.
According to Axios, four main options are under consideration:
-interference or blockade of Kharg Island, the main center of Iran's oil exports
-intervention on Larak Island, which plays a key role in controlling the Strait of Hormuz
-taking control of the strategic island of Abu Musa and two smaller islands, also disputed by the United Arab Emirates
-blocking or seizing ships carrying Iranian oil east of the strait
In parallel, the US military has also prepared plans for ground operations inside Iranian territory, with the aim of securing enriched nuclear materials. As an alternative, large-scale air strikes against nuclear facilities are also being considered.
President Trump has not yet made a final decision. White House officials describe the ground scenarios as "hypothetical," but administration sources say he is prepared to escalate if progress is not made in the negotiations.
First, he could order bombings of Iranian energy infrastructure. White House spokeswoman Caroline Leavitt warned that the president is prepared to strike “harder than ever” if a deal is not reached, stressing that “the president does not bluff.”
On the ground, the US is strengthening its military presence in the Middle East. According to sources, the deployment of new air squadrons and thousands of troops, including Marine units and elements of the 82nd Airborne Division, is expected.
On the other hand, Iran expresses distrust of American intentions. The speaker of the Iranian parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated that intelligence services believe that the adversaries are preparing operations to seize an Iranian island, warning of a counterattack to any military action.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue. According to a source cited by Axios, countries including Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey are trying to mediate a meeting between the parties. Although Iran has rejected some of the initial US demands, it has not completely ruled out the possibility of negotiations.
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