The Pentagon is preparing several military scenarios for a “final strike” on Iran, which may include ground operations and large-scale airstrikes, reports Axios.
Source: Censor.NET
According to sources, escalation could increase if negotiations with Iran do not progress and the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. U.S. officials believe that a show of force could create additional leverage in peace talks or provide President Donald Trump with a “symbolic result.”
Four main scenarios are being considered:
- Invasion or blockade of Kharg Island, a key center for Iran’s oil exports;
- Seizure of Larak Island, which controls the Strait of Hormuz, along with Iranian bunkers, strike ships, and radars;
- Capture of Abu Musa Island and two smaller islands near the western entrance to the strait, also claimed by the UAE;
- Blocking or seizing vessels exporting Iranian oil.
Additionally, operational options are planned for Iran’s nuclear facilities to control highly enriched uranium—either through ground actions or massive airstrikes.
So far, Trump has not made a decision on implementing any scenario, and the White House calls potential ground operations “hypothetical.” The first strikes could target power plants and energy infrastructure, to which Tehran has already threatened large-scale retaliatory actions across the Persian Gulf.