The closure of this strategic passage has a serious impact on the global energy market, considering that a significant part of the world’s oil exports passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
Hark Island handles about 90 percent of Iran’s crude oil exports, making it a key infrastructure point for Tehran.
Sources say Trump cannot end the conflict on his terms until he secures free passage through the strait. However, a potential ground operation carries high risk as US troops would be exposed to direct Iranian military responses.
According to the same sources, before the eventual capture of the island, it is necessary to further weaken Iran’s military capabilities, so that the operation could serve as effective pressure in negotiations.
High officials emphasize that the final decision has not yet been made, but the goal is clear – to ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
“If it requires the seizure of the islands or wider military action, the president will make that decision,” one of the officials said.
It should be recalled that US forces recently carried out airstrikes on several targets on Hark Island, which was described as a warning to Tehran and preparing the ground for possible further military actions.
(Vijesti.ba)
