Trump Considers Military Escalation Against Iran Including Seizing Islands Near Strait of Hormuz

Following a night of intensified airstrikes on Iran, the White House is reviewing a range of measures that could escalate the conflict in the Gulf region. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal on July 26, 2026, President Donald Trump is leaning toward expanding military operations against Iran. Options under consideration include increasing airstrikes, deploying ground forces to seize Iranian islands near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and bombing a fortified underground tunnel complex at Mount Makuh.

In recent days, Trump has received multiple briefings from senior administration officials on potential escalation scenarios. A key objective behind these plans is to pressure Iran into complying with U.S. demands on its nuclear program and to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime chokepoint. On Tuesday evening, Trump convened a situation room meeting at the White House to discuss these possibilities, including the potential capture of Kharg Island and other territories along the strait.

Trump has publicly signaled his intent to intensify military pressure, stating in a Fox News interview that attacks on bridges and power stations might occur soon, with energy infrastructure targeted later. Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian traveled to Qatar, which has been mediating diplomatic talks aimed at de-escalation over the past two weeks. However, the U.S. has indicated that future negotiations will proceed under military pressure, while Iran continues missile and drone strikes against Gulf states.

Overnight, U.S. forces reportedly expanded their strikes deeper into northern Iran, including areas near Tehran, marking a new phase in the current escalation. Iran responded by activating air defense systems in its capital. The U.S. Central Command confirmed completion of another wave of attacks on Iranian command centers, air defense sites, missile and drone launch capabilities, and coastal surveillance facilities, all ordered by President Trump.