Khaberni - CNN reported that Iran has beefed up the deployment of mines, air defense systems, and additional military personnel on Kharg Island in the recent weeks, in preparation for repelling a possible American operation to take control of the island.
The network cited multiple sources familiar with US intelligence reports that Iran has deployed shoulder-launched missile systems (MANPADs), as well as anti-personnel and anti-tank mines around the island, including on beaches that could potentially witness an American amphibious landing.
US officials and military experts warned of the significant risks of such a ground operation, including the possibility of substantial human casualties. Retired Admiral James Stavridis, former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, said: "The Iranians are smart and merciless. They will do all they can to inflict the highest number of casualties on US forces whether at sea, and especially once ground troops land on any sovereign territory of theirs."
Gulf allies are particularly urging the US administration not to prolong the war by putting ground troops on Kharg Island, fearing that would lead to heavy losses and Iranian retaliations against the Gulf states' infrastructure and prolonging the conflict. Instead, Gulf states are pressing US officials on the necessity to dismantle Iran's ballistic missile program.
Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, warned on Wednesday the "enemies" of the country against attempting to occupy any Iranian islands, stating that all enemy movements are fully monitored by the Iranian Armed Forces.
In response, the United States has deployed two Marine reconnaissance units in the Middle East, and about 1000 soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division are expected to join them in the coming days.
Stavridis suggested that a naval blockade of Kharg could be an alternative to putting pressure on Iran without actually landing troops on the beach, adding: "This can be done without risking our troops on the shore."
This comes at a time when the US-Israeli war on Iran continues for the 26th consecutive day, with escalating crisis in the Middle East.
