The United States Could Strike Iran's Kharg Island
News that the United States may send thousands of additional troops to the Middle East region has increased the likelihood of a large-scale confrontation with Iran in the international community. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
In this very situation, assumptions about the targets are becoming more acute. One of the most attention-grabbing locations is Khark Island.
This place is considered the most important center for Iran's crude oil exports, and almost ninety percent of the country's oil shipments pass through this island. Therefore, Khark is regarded as one of the weakest and most sensitive points of Iran's economy.
However, experts emphasize that Khark Island is only a part of a large strategic system in the Persian Gulf. Iran controls dozens of islands in this area, some of which are located near the Strait of Hormuz and are militarily very important.
This narrow waterway is one of the most important maritime transit points worldwide, with a large portion of global oil and gas trade taking place here. When exerting military pressure against Iran, it is necessary to consider not only the export facilities but also the ability to affect ship traffic in the strait.
Research conducted by scientists from Sun Yat-sen University in China shows that seven islands inside and around the strait form Iran's defense arc. In 2022, Iranian and Chinese scientists concluded that the comparative line connecting these islands helps explain Tehran's superiority in controlling security in the Strait of Hormuz.
Geography itself means that Iran has a powerful tool in any escalation. Among the most important strategic points are the islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb.
Despite their small size, they are crucial for monitoring and controlling movement in the strait. The short distance between the islands and the water depth, which is a limiting factor for large ships, make passing near them mandatory.
This creates opportunities for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran to use fast boats, mine-laying vessels, and drones. Therefore, discussions about possible U.S. military plans in the region are not limited only to the economic importance of Khark Island.
This process is also closely related to the extensive network of islands that ensure Iran's maritime defense. The balance of power in the Gulf may depend on these small strategic points as much as on large military bases and oil terminals.
