US officials are discussing multiple options for a “decisive strike” against Iran, including potential invasions of key islands, while Iran mobilizes over a million fighters.
US Considers Military Options Against Iran
US officials, speaking with Axios, have outlined four potential scenarios for a “decisive strike” against Iran. These include invading or blockading Kharg Island, a major Iranian oil export hub, and invading Larak Island, which controls access to the Strait of Hormuz.
Other options under consideration are seizing the strategic Abu Musa Island, along with two smaller nearby islands disputed with the United Arab Emirates, and blocking or seizing Iranian oil tankers in the eastern Strait of Hormuz.
Plans for Ground Operations Inside Iran
The US military has reportedly developed plans for ground operations deep inside Iran to secure highly enriched uranium stored in nuclear facilities. President Trump is prepared to escalate the conflict if negotiations with Iran fail to yield results.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt warned Iran on Wednesday that President Trump is prepared to strike “harder than ever before,” stating he is not bluffing and will “unleash hell” if Iran continues to refuse a deal.
Iran Mobilizes Forces, Expresses Distrust
Iran is mobilizing a massive force, with officials announcing plans to recruit over a million fighters to counter a potential US land invasion. Young volunteers are reportedly flocking to recruitment centers of the Basij, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and the army.
Iranian officials have expressed distrust of Trump, viewing US negotiations as a pretext for surprise attacks. Iran has delivered a 15-point response to US conditions for ending the conflict and awaits a US reaction.
US Military Deployment to the Middle East
The US Department of Defense has ordered the deployment of approximately 2,500 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East, according to a US official speaking with Al-Jazeera.
