Iran has taken significant military steps to prepare for a possible American ground operation targeting Kharg Island, a key oil export hub, even as its foreign minister denied any direct negotiations with the United States and reports emerged of fresh airstrikes in western parts of the country.

According to a report by CNN, Tehran has intensified its defenses on the strategic island, raising concerns that a new phase in the conflict could be approaching. The preparations come amid ongoing reports of indirect contacts between Washington and Tehran.

The report states that Iran has planted mines around Kharg Island, deployed additional military forces, and transferred advanced air defense systems to the area. These measures are intended to counter the possibility of a U.S. attempt to seize the island, which plays a central role in Iran’s oil exports.

At the same time, officials in Washington are said to be weighing the option of using ground forces to capture the island as part of a broader effort to pressure Iran into reopening the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most critical global shipping routes.

However, U.S. officials and military analysts have cautioned that such an operation would carry substantial risks. They note that Kharg Island is heavily fortified with layered defenses, including reinforced surface-to-air missile systems deployed in recent weeks. In addition, the mines surrounding the island could endanger armored units and complicate any attempted landing.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi dismissed reports of direct negotiations with the United States aimed at ending the conflict. He stated, “The enemy has failed to achieve its objectives and has not succeeded in breaking the unity of the Iranian people.” At the same time, he acknowledged that messages are being exchanged indirectly through intermediaries.

Araghchi added that Iran does not view itself as being in conflict with regional countries, but made clear that any military response would target American bases or parties involved in attacks against Iran. “Our message to the countries of the region is to distance themselves from the Americans,” he said.

Meanwhile, reports from within Iran indicated that airstrikes struck the city of Mashhad, the country’s second-largest city. According to available information, the strikes focused on areas near the local airport, though no official details have yet been released regarding damage or casualties.

{Matzav.com}