American officials believe that a show of force would give the USA leverage in peace negotiations or simply provide Trump with an argument to declare victory in Iran. According to Axios, the Pentagon is reportedly developing military plans for a “final strike” on the Tehran regime, which could include the involvement of ground forces and a massive bombing campaign.
The information comes against the backdrop of distorted information about the stage of negotiations. Officials and sources familiar with internal discussions have described four major “final strike” options that Trump could choose from.
One option would be the invasion or blockade of Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub.
Another option would be the invasion of Larak Island, which helps Iran consolidate control over the Strait of Hormuz, reports hotnews.ro.. This outpost hosts Iranian bunkers, attack boats capable of blowing up cargo ships, and radars monitoring movements in the strait.
The third idea would be the capture of the strategic island of Abu Musa and two smaller islands, located near the western entrance of the strait and controlled by Iran, but also claimed by the United Arab Emirates.
The fourth option would be the blockade or capture of ships exporting Iranian oil in the eastern part of the Strait of Hormuz.
The American leader has not yet made a decision regarding the implementation of any of these scenarios, and White House officials describe any potential ground operations as “hypothetical”. However, sources say that the president is ready to escalate the conflict if negotiations do not yield concrete results soon.
It is estimated that Trump might first implement his threat to bomb power plants and energy facilities in Iran.