U.S. and Israel Plan Kharg Island Seizure as Iran Detains Sinoguards Vessel
CL•U.S. and Israel plan to resume attacks on Iran, including aerial strikes on command centers and potential seizure of Kharg Island crude export hub, risking tighter flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s seizure of the Honduran-flagged Sinoguards vessel 38 nm Fujairah raises maritime risk and increases shipping insurance costs.
1. U.S.-Israel Military Plans
U.S. defense officials have drafted contingency scenarios for renewed operations against Iran, comprising intensified aerial campaigns targeting command structures and core infrastructure. Israel’s armed forces are on high alert, awaiting final authorization from the White House to initiate coordinated strikes.
2. Operation Details
Proposed options include the tactical seizure of Kharg Island—Iran’s principal crude export hub—and deployment of ground commandos to extract enriched uranium from underground facilities. Such missions would require thousands of support personnel and carry significant risk of combat casualties.
3. Energy Flow Risks
Seizing Kharg Island or launching expanded bombings could further disrupt exports via the Strait of Hormuz, where monthly flows plunged from 93 million barrels to 10 million barrels in April. A renewed supply squeeze would likely drive up global energy prices and raise logistics expenses.
4. Sinoguards Vessel Seizure
Iran detained the Honduran-flagged Sinoguards Marine Security vessel 38 nautical miles off Fujairah for a documentation and compliance inspection. The incident marks heightened maritime risk and is expected to push up shipping insurance premiums for vessels in the region.
