Trump Administration Shifts War Goals Toward Kharg Island Seizure and Hormuz Leverage

Euronews Persian reports that Israeli sources indicate the focus has shifted from Iran's nuclear capabilities to seizing Kharg Island — through which 90% of Iranian oil loads — to strangle Tehran's petroleum revenue and provide Washington political cover for declaring victory. Approximately 4,500 Marines and sailors are en route with assault amphibious platforms and F-35Bs. Saudi Arabia warned 'Saudi patience is not unlimited,' signaling Gulf states' growing discomfort with the operation's scope. Trump's social media threats suggest using Hormuz control as political leverage while maintaining long-term strategic positioning.