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The United States is considering a military operation to seize control of Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf, as Iran has significantly increased its military presence and defensive measures in the area, CNN reported, citing sources familiar with U.S. intelligence assessments.
According to the report, Iran has deployed additional troops, air defense systems, and man-portable surface-to-air missiles (MANPADS), as well as anti-personnel and anti-armor mines on the island and along the coastline. These measures are intended to deter a possible amphibious landing by US forces.
Kharg Island is considered vital to the Iranian economy, processing about 90% of the country's oil exports. The Trump administration sees taking control of it as a means of pressuring Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
However, US officials and military experts warn of high risks from a ground operation, including the possibility of significant casualties. The island's layered defenses and proximity to Iranian territory make it a difficult target to control.
Israeli sources have also expressed concerns that such an operation could provoke drone and missile attacks on US forces. Former NATO commander, retired Admiral James Stavridis, assessed that Iran would seek to inflict “maximum casualties” in the event of an intervention.
On the other hand, the speaker of the Iranian parliament warned that any attempt to occupy an Iranian island would face a harsh response, threatening the infrastructure of regional countries that could support such an operation.
Meanwhile, US allies in the Persian Gulf have expressed reservations about a ground intervention, warning that it could escalate the conflict and cause wider repercussions in the region. As an alternative, experts suggest imposing a naval blockade to stop oil exports from the island, without involving troops on the ground.
At this stage, the US administration remains divided on the benefits and risks of such an operation, while developments on the ground continue to influence decision-making.
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