Kharg Island Fortifications Signal High Stakes in Possible US Ground Plan

Iran is reportedly relocating air defenses, traps, and mines to Kharg Island in the Persian Gulf to deter a potential U.S. ground operation, a move reinforced by U.S. intelligence disclosures. Kharg, a key oil-export hub near Hormuz that handles about 90% of Iran’s crude exports, would pose significant risks for any landing. The Pentagon has already struck targets on the island, and U.S. forces including two Marine Expeditionary Units and about 1,000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne are deploying to the region amid ongoing surveillance. Gulf allies urge caution and focus on missile capabilities, while analysts note that even if Kharg were captured it would not by itself resolve Hormuz-related energy flows, with offshore blockades proposed as an alternative.