- The US is reportedly considering a ground offensive on two Iranian islands, Qeshm and Kharg, to break Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz.
- Qeshm Island is heavily fortified with an underground 'missile city' and serves as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' primary hub for denying access to the Strait.
- Kharg Island is crucial for Iran's economy, handling approximately 90 per cent of its oil exports, and is also heavily fortified with missiles and mines.
- Military experts suggest that taking Qeshm would be a challenging and costly operation with limited strategic return due to its size, terrain and proximity to the mainland.
- Donald Trump has sent thousands of troops to the region while simultaneously claiming progress in talks that Tehran denies, creating contradictory messages amidst reports of a potential invasion.
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