Hebrew media reports have revealed intensive American movements in the Middle East, indicating a field reality different from political statements about resolving the conflict with Iran. Sources explained that Washington has reinforced its military presence by deploying amphibious warships and advanced aircraft, in addition to thousands of marines and sailors in strategic locations near the Iranian coast.
Strategic assessments indicate that the US administration is seriously considering the option of controlling Kharg Island, which is considered one of the most important economic and vital assets of the Islamic Republic. The importance of this island lies in its being the main center for energy distribution in Iran, as it possesses a huge infrastructure capable of receiving giant oil tankers and storing millions of barrels.
Observers believe that any targeting or control of this island would represent a devastating blow to the Iranian economy, given that about 90% of oil exports pass through its piers and facilities. This total dependence makes the island a strategic target for Washington in its attempt to undermine Tehran's financial capabilities and force it to make major political and military concessions.
In contrast, international media sources have warned that controlling the island does not necessarily guarantee a final strategic resolution to the conflict. There are fundamental questions about whether this step would push Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, or whether it would lead to a counter-reaction that would push the Iranian leadership towards further military escalation in international waterways.
US forces face grave military risks if a decision is made to carry out a ground operation to control Kharg, as this would require crossing the Strait of Hormuz under the threat of ballistic missiles. Iranian drones and naval mines also pose a significant obstacle to achieving complete air and naval superiority around the island, which could inflict heavy human and material losses on attacking forces.
In addition to military challenges, concerns arise regarding the civilians present on the island, the vast majority of whom are oil sector workers and engineers. The transformation of oil facilities into a battlefield will inevitably lead to a humanitarian and environmental catastrophe, as well as the potential depletion of advanced American weapons and missile stockpiles in a long-term confrontation.
For its part, Tehran has not stood idly by in the face of these threats. Field sources reported that the Iranian army has unprecedentedly strengthened its defenses on Kharg Island. These reinforcements included the deployment of additional air defense systems, the planting of mines and improvised explosive devices along the coasts, and the transfer of elite military units to secure vital facilities.
Iranian officials issue repeated warnings that any encroachment on Iranian islands will be met with a harsh and direct response that will affect infrastructure throughout the entire region. These warning messages aim to deter Washington and its regional allies from engaging in a military adventure that could ignite a comprehensive war whose end or repercussions on the global energy market cannot be predicted.
There is a clear division within the US administration on this issue, with one faction pushing for a decisive economic blow by controlling Kharg to end the war quickly. In contrast, another faction warns against sliding into a complex and costly conflict that could last for years, putting decision-makers in Washington before difficult strategic choices that could change the face of the region.
Kharg Island is a vital artery for the Iranian oil industry, with estimates indicating that about 90 percent of exports pass through its vital facilities.
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Hebrew reports: Washington considers controlling Kharg Island, Iran's oil lifeline