US plans 'final blow' against Iran as Trump demands Tehran make a deal

The US Department of War is drafting plans for a “final blow” against Iran that includes ground troops and a massive bombing campaign, according to a report by Axios.

The report on Thursday said the US is considering four options for this military offensive.

The first is invading or blockading Kharg Island, from which Iran exports roughly 90 percent of its oil. The US could also seize Larak, a small island next to Iran’s heavily fortified Qeshm Island. Iran has redirected vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to Larak, apparently for security screening.

The US is also weighing the seizure of Abu Musa and two smaller islands. The former shah of Iran occupied Abu Musa in 1971, days before the establishment of the UAE. Abu Dhabi stakes a claim to Abu Musa and two other islands close by: Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb.

In addition, the US has considered seizing ships exporting Iranian oil through the Strait of Hormuz.

Read more: US plans 'final blow' against Iran as Trump demands Tehran make a deal