One of the options for a ground operation against Iran, which the US presidential administration is considering, is the seizure of six Iranian islands located in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz. This was reported by the American publication Axios.
One of them is Kharg Island. It is a small island with an area of 20 square kilometers, located about 24 kilometers from the coast of Iran. It is located on the infrastructure that provides about 90% of crude oil exports.
Kharg Island has an airport and fresh water reserves necessary to ensure the livelihood of its inhabitants, most of whom are oil workers. A direct strike on Kharg Island could quickly stop the export of Iranian oil, a significant part of which is supplied to China.
Larak Island, another potential target for the US military, is located at the narrowest point in the Strait of Hormuz. It is also a key export point for Iranian oil. In addition, the island has a network of fortifications that are used to monitor the strait. Iranian gunboats are also stationed on the island, with which they can attack commercial vessels.
Axios writes that the capture of Larak Island would limit Iran's ability to influence shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. However, it would be a difficult target, like Kharg Island.
A group of small islands Abu Masa, Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb are located near the western entrance to the Strait of Hormuz. They are claimed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), but Iran occupied them in 1971 and has maintained control over them since then.
Axios sources reported that the US Department of War proposed capturing Abu Masa Island, which would limit Iran's military capabilities in the strait.
In addition, Qeshm Island, the largest island in the Persian Gulf, is being considered as one of the possible targets. According to intelligence, there are tunnels on this island that store stocks of anti-ship missiles, drones, sea mines and other equipment.
However, the area of Qeshm Island is almost 900 square kilometers. It would take a large force to capture and hold it under control.
As Ukrainian News Agency earlier reported, on March 25, the American television channel CNN reported, citing sources, that in recent weeks Iran has been actively strengthening Kharg Island, laying minefields and deploying air defense systems.
And on March 26, the Iranian Tasnim news agency wrote that Iran had mobilized up to a million fighters amid information that the US was likely preparing a ground operation.
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