US President Donald Trump has signaled that American forces may move to take control of Iran’s Kharg Island, the country’s main oil export hub in the northern Persian Gulf. The island handles about 90 percent of Iran’s oil exports and lies in deep waters suitable for large crude carriers. The United States reportedly struck nearly 90 military targets on the island on March 13 but avoided oil infrastructure. Analysts suggest any US operation would likely be temporary, aimed at pressuring Tehran to ease its control over the Strait of Hormuz and meet Washington’s demands.

Iran has reinforced its defenses on Kharg Island, deploying surface-to-air missile batteries and warning of severe retaliation if US troops attempt to land. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowed that any invading force would face “a rain of fire.” The US has positioned about 5,000 naval personnel and 2,000 paratroopers in the region, fueling speculation about a potential assault.

Despite military readiness, the report notes that a prolonged occupation would be difficult for the US to sustain and unpopular domestically. Trump also indicated that ongoing talks with Iran could still avert a military confrontation.