Kharg Island, a small but strategically crucial oil hub in the Persian Gulf, has become the focal point of tensions between the United States and Iran.
With nearly 90% of Iran's oil exports passing through the island, a US operation to capture it could severely disrupt Tehran's oil sector and weaken its grip on the Strait of Hormuz.
However, such a move would come with significant risks, including the possibility of heavy casualties and continued attacks from Iran's mainland.
A US strike on Kharg Island could involve airborne operations by paratroopers or sea-based operations by Marines, but would require passing through the Strait of Hormuz, which is under Iranian control.
Experts warn that taking control of the island could escalate the conflict, with Iran and its allies potentially stepping up their response, including laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz and launching drone strikes.
