The Pentagon is preparing scenarios for a massive final blow against Iran, with options including ground troops and a potential invasion of Kharg Island, a key part of Iran's oil infrastructure. The plans, described as hypothetical by White House officials, come as President Donald Trump warned Iran to negotiate before it is too late.
According to Axios, four proposals are being drawn up for Trump: invade or blockade Kharg Island; invade Larak Island, which helps Iran control the Strait of Hormuz; seize Abu Musa and two smaller Iranian-controlled islands near the strait; or block and seize ships exporting Iranian oil. Plans for ground operations to secure enriched uranium in Iran's nuclear facilities, as well as a large-scale air strike alternative, have also been prepared.
Trump has not yet decided on any option but is ready to escalate if negotiations stall, US officials told Axios. In a Truth Social post on Thursday, Trump expressed frustration, claiming Iranian negotiators are begging for a deal while publicly saying they are only looking at the US proposal. He warned, 'They better get serious soon, before it is too late, because once that happens, there is NO TURNING BACK.'
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed Trump's warnings, stating the president is ready to unleash hell and does not bluff. 'Any violence beyond this point will be because the Iranian regime refuses to come to a deal,' she said. Meanwhile, thousands more US troops are expected to arrive in the Middle East, with elements of the 82nd Airborne Division deploying to the region.
