Axios: Pentagon Preparing for 'Final Strike' Against Iran

According to the media report, whether or not the strike is carried out directly depends on the outcome of negotiations—if talks collapse and the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, escalation is almost inevitable. The report states that various hardline options to end the conflict are currently being discussed within the U.S. government:

- Invasion or blockade of Iran's main oil export hub—Khark Island.

- Invasion of Larak Island, which helps Iran consolidate control over the Strait of Hormuz. This strategically vital island hosts Iranian shelters, attack boats capable of targeting cargo ships, and radar systems monitoring vessel movements within the strait.

- Seizing the strategically significant Abu Musa Island, as well as two smaller islands near the western entrance of the Strait of Hormuz, which are under Iranian control but also claimed by the UAE.

- Blocking or seizing vessels carrying Iranian oil in the eastern part of the Strait of Hormuz.

In addition, the media reports that the U.S. has separately considered the possibility of a ground operation aimed at capturing enriched uranium, though the U.S. may instead opt for massive air strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure as an alternative.

Trump has not yet made a final decision. The White House describes these plans as merely "hypothetical," while simultaneously emphasizing readiness for potential escalation.

This report reflects a typical strategy of maximum pressure and brinkmanship—not a finalized military plan:

1. All options involve extreme military actions, including island seizures, oil blockades, and strikes on nuclear facilities, with the goal of completely disabling Iran’s economy and its capacity for military retaliation;

2. The plans carry extremely high risks, likely triggering a full-scale regional war, a global energy crisis, and large-scale Iranian retaliation against U.S. bases, Israel, and Gulf states;

3. The White House labeling them as “hypothetical” may be a tactic—leaking extreme plans to pressure Iran into concessions during negotiations;

4. Trump has not approved any action, indicating significant internal divisions and concerns within the U.S., making the prospect of a large-scale direct invasion unlikely in the short term.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1860725962838028/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.