US accelerates troop deployment to Middle East amid Kharg Island scenario
Deployment of thousands of troops (photo: Getty Images)
The US is considering launching a ground operation to seize Iran's Kharg Island. Against this backdrop, Washington has accelerated the deployment of its forces to the Middle East, reports The Jerusalem Post.
According to two sources, in recent days, senior US officials told their counterparts in Israel and other countries that Washington will likely have no choice but to launch a ground operation to seize Iran's Kharg Island.
This island is located in the Persian Gulf and is the main hub for Iran's oil exports. Literally 90% of Iran's oil goes to China.
According to The Jerusalem Post, in recent days, discussions have begun within the Trump administration about the possibility of occupying the island to force Iran to stop blocking shipping through the Hormuz Strait.
In addition, a US official confirmed to the publication that "the US military has accelerated the deployment of thousands of Marines and Navy personnel to the Middle East."
This operation includes the USS Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, which consists of the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (serving as a light aircraft carrier), as well as the amphibious transport docks USS Portland and USS Comstock.
There are about 4,500 Marines and additional combat personnel aboard these three vessels.
Middle East conflict
A few days ago, the media reported that the Trump administration was considering sending thousands of American soldiers to strengthen its operation in the Middle East.
A day earlier, US President Donald Trump gave Iran 48 hours to open the Hormuz Strait. Otherwise, he threatened to destroy Iran's power plants.
Gulf countries, which were previously against a war between the US and Israel with Iran, are now supporting continued strikes. They want Tehran to emerge from the war with significantly weakened military strength.
