According to sources from the publication, a final decision on the operation has not yet been made. However, such a measure is being considered as a way to improve the U.S. negotiating position with Iran.
Axios reports that before a potential operation, Washington plans to weaken Iran's military capabilities in this strategically important area. One informant noted that this would take about a month, after which the U.S. could use control over Kharg to its advantage.
Additionally, to carry out the operation, it is necessary to increase the presence of U.S. troops in the region. It is expected that additional U.S. Marine Corps units may be deployed to the Middle East. Reuters, citing Axios, confirms that this is one of the options being considered to increase pressure on Tehran.
However, former U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery warned that capturing Kharg could pose a threat to American servicemen, given the uncertainties in the peace negotiations with Iran.
Previously, it was reported that the U.S. had already struck military facilities on Kharg, but the oil infrastructure was not damaged. Reuters also clarifies that, despite the attacks, oil production and exports continued uninterrupted.
