According to Axios, U.S. officials are weighing the idea of a potential military occupation or siege of Kharg Island, a significant location for Iran's oil exports. Roughly 90% of Iran's oil exports and about 30 million barrels are stored on Kharg Island, making it a strategic target. Unnamed sources indicate that the motivation behind this consideration is to exert pressure on Iran regarding the shipping fees in the Strait of Hormuz.

The sources cite President Donald Trump’s possible willingness to take drastic action, emphasizing that if he deems it necessary to secure a free flow of oil through Hormuz, he might resort to military measures involving Kharg Island. The situation is described as highly sensitive politically, suggesting substantial discussions behind closed doors about the implications such actions would have on U.S.-Iran relations and regional stability.

Furthermore, it is mentioned that Trump would not hesitate to deploy troops if required, echoing historical decisions made by previous U.S. presidents under certain circumstances. The unfolding situation reveals the gravity of military engagement possibilities, which could escalate tensions in the region and lead to unpredictable outcomes for international oil markets and global geopolitics.