26.03.2026 13:42
It is claimed that the U.S. is evaluating "final blow" scenarios involving ground operations and extensive bombardments against Iran, while thousands of soldiers and air assets have been deployed to the region. The Strait of Hormuz and nuclear facilities are indicated as possible targets, while the distrust between the parties is notable despite the mediation efforts of Turkey, Pakistan, and Egypt.
As the war escalating along the Iran-Israel line in the Middle East continues on its 27th day, claims that the U.S. is preparing for a possible major intervention have shaken the agenda. According to a report by Axios based on U.S. officials, the Pentagon is evaluating extensive military options described as the "final blow" against Iran.
GROUND OPERATIONS AMONG SCENARIOS
The report stated that the scenarios on the table include not only airstrikes but also ground operations. Plans that could target Iran's energy and logistics lines are particularly highlighted, with options for capturing or blockading strategic islands such as Kharg, Larak, and Abu Musa.
AIR STRIKE ON NUCLEAR FACILITIES
It was also expressed that the U.S. is considering steps that could directly target Iran's oil exports, as well as the possibility of operations or airstrikes against nuclear facilities. Comments are being made that such a move could escalate the tension in the region into a much larger war.
IF THE DIPLOMATIC PROCESS FAILS...
Officials speaking to Axios emphasized that no definitive decision has been made yet and that some plans are at a "hypothetical" level, while stating that a significant military escalation would become more likely if the diplomatic process fails or if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.
THOUSANDS OF TROOPS DEPLOYED TO THE REGION
Activity on the ground is also noteworthy. It has been reported that the U.S. has deployed thousands of troops to the region and is making additional deployments to increase air assets and combat capacity. This development is seen as Washington accelerating its preparations against a possible scenario.
DIPLOMATIC TRAFFIC CONTINUES
On the other hand, diplomatic traffic has not completely stopped. According to a source involved in mediation efforts, contacts aimed at bringing the parties together are ongoing under the leadership of Turkey, Pakistan, and Egypt. However, it is stated that the Iranian Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) are approaching this process with considerable caution and that the lack of trust between the parties is the biggest obstacle.
U.S.-ISRAEL ATTACKS ON IRAN
While negotiations continue between the Tehran and Washington administrations, Israel and the U.S. launched a military attack on Iran on February 28. Iran responded with attacks on targets it identified in several regional countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain, where U.S. bases are located, in addition to Israel.
In the U.S.-Israel attacks, Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, along with many high-ranking officials, was killed. According to Iranian officials, the death toll from the U.S.-Israel attacks has exceeded 1,348, and the number of injured has surpassed 17,000.