Overview
- White House official Anna Kelly said the U.S. military can neutralize Kharg Island at any time if the president orders it.
- President Trump said U.S. strikes had "totally obliterated" military targets on Kharg and warned the island’s infrastructure could be hit if the blockade continues.
- U.S. media reported additional Marines are being deployed to the Middle East, a move viewed as a potential signal of ground options under consideration.
- Axios reported Trump is weighing an operation to occupy or blockade Kharg to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait, and the White House press secretary stressed the Pentagon prepares options for the president.
- Reporting describes an effective Iranian blockade that has largely halted shipping through Hormuz and driven oil price spikes since late February.