U.S. Reportedly Plans Ground Assault on Iran's Key Oil Hub, Kharg Island

U.S. Military Plans for Iran

According to Главком: According to sources within the U.S. Senate, a ground operation in Iran could be launched in the coming days. This information, citing congressional Republicans, was reported by a Wall Street Journal journalist. Washington has amassed a force of approximately 50,000 troops in the region for a campaign codenamed 'Epic Fury'. In recent days, thousands of Marines and paratroopers have been deployed to the Middle East. This development follows a period of heightened tensions in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Focus on Kharg Island

A U.S. military vessel carrying reinforcements is scheduled to come under the control of U.S. Central Command this week. The Pentagon has also begun preparing an additional thousand rapid response troops. The primary target of the potential operation is Kharg Island, Iran's crucial oil export terminal. Tehran is urgently bolstering the island's defenses by laying minefields and deploying anti-aircraft systems. Kharg Island has previously been targeted by U.S. airstrikes, and former U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened renewed attacks.

Simultaneously, Tehran has informed the U.N. Security Council and the International Maritime Organization of its readiness to open the strategic waterway to certain vessels. Iran stated that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is only permitted for ships not involved in aggression against Iran. Transit conditions include compliance with safety rules and coordination with Iranian authorities. Tehran's representatives emphasized that no direct contacts with Washington have been confirmed.

This situation risks a major regional escalation, given Kharg Island's vital importance to Iran's economy and security. U.S. actions may aim not only for military advantage but also for control over strategic oil routes, which could, in turn, impact global energy markets. In response, Iran is taking steps to strengthen its defenses, potentially increasing the risk of unintended clashes between the parties. This sharp deterioration in the Middle East requires careful observation by the international community, as the consequences could be far-reaching.

The escalating tensions around Kharg Island are not the only concern for U.S. interests in the region. In a related development, the U.S. and Israel have reportedly devised plans for a special operation aimed at seizing Iranian nuclear fuel. This operation could further complicate the already volatile situation and highlight the multifaceted nature of U.S. military strategies in Iran. To learn more about these developments, read our detailed report on the planned operation targeting Iran's nuclear capabilities.