Iran fortifies Kharg Island defenses against potential US ground operations

JAKARTA - Iran has strengthened its defenses on Kharg Island in recent weeks by deploying mines and deploying additional troops and air defense systems to anticipate possible US ground operations.

Reporting on CNN citing US intelligence sources, the report said the move included the deployment of portable air defense systems as well as anti-personnel and anti-armor mines around the island, including along the coastline that could potentially be a landing point for American forces.

The source also stated that the US Central Command (CENTCOM) continues to monitor the island to detect changes on the ground, including indications of trap installation.

Previously, on Friday (20/3), Axios reported that US President Donald Trump was considering the option of forcing Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by taking over Kharg Island.

Finance Minister ASScott Bessent earlier said all options remained open, including the possibility of sending troops to the island.

The United States and Israel launched an attack on a number of targets in Iran, including Tehran, on February 28, causing damage and civilian casualties. Iran then retaliated by attacking Israeli territory and American military facilities in the Middle East.