- President Donald Trump is reportedly considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran’s Kharg Island to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
- Kharg Island is a crucial asset for Iran, processing 90 per cent of its crude oil exports, though sources warn a ground operation could endanger US troops.
- A senior administration official indicated Trump's determination to open Hormuz, even if it necessitates taking Kharg Island.
- "He wants Hormuz open. If he has to take Kharg Island to make it happen, that's going to happen. If he decides to have a coastal invasion, that's going to happen. But that decision hasn't been made," a senior administration official told Axios.
- Washington has deployed low-flying A-10 Warthog jets and Apache helicopters to strike Iranian vessels and drones near the Strait of Hormuz.
IN FULL