Trump weighs Kharg Island occupation to reopen Hormuz

According to Axios, the White House is considering options including the occupation or blockade of Iran’s Kharg Island in an effort to force Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The island, which handles about 90 per cent of Iran’s oil exports, is crucial to global energy markets.

Such an operation could follow a further weakening of Iran’s military capabilities in the area, the outlet’s sources say. The deployment of additional US troops is also under consideration, with several Marine units already heading to the region.

US officials said no decision has yet been taken and that President Donald Trump is keeping all options open. Alongside a potential occupation of the island, a naval blockade to prevent tankers from accessing it is also being discussed.

Some experts warn that occupying the island may not lead to the reopening of the strait and could expose US troops to greater risk. An alternative could be to strengthen tanker protection through military escorts.

The US has already conducted air strikes on military targets on Kharg Island to weaken Iranian capabilities and prepare the ground for possible further action.

(max)