In his message on social media, Ward noted that "at least three Republicans in Congress, including the chairmen of the armed services committees in both chambers, have confirmed that operations in Iran are on the agenda and may begin soon."
Earlier, The Jerusalem Post reported that the US may be forced to initiate a ground offensive to capture Khark Island, which accounts for 90% of Iran's oil exports. This was also mentioned in Axios. Financial Times and Newsmax reported on the rapid deployment of thousands of Marines and warships to the Middle East region.
According to CNN, Iran is strengthening its positions on the island by deploying additional forces and setting up defensive traps to prevent a possible invasion. As reported by the Iranian agency Tasnim, Tehran is prepared to respond "unprecedentedly" in the event of an attempt to capture the island.
