Trump is leaning toward expanding military action against Iran, with options including seizing Kharg Island

American officials say President Trump is leaning toward expanding U.S. military action against Iran. Potential options include intensifying airstrikes, deploying ground forces to seize Iranian islands near the Strait of Hormuz, and bombing a fortified site that may be used for secret nuclear work. On Tuesday evening, Trump convened a Situation Room meeting to discuss the possibility of U.S. troops occupying Kharg Island and other Iranian territories along the Strait of Hormuz, as well as potential airstrikes on a nuclear-related target at Kuh-e Piksar in Iran that has not yet been locked in by the U.S. In addition, the U.S. military may continue to launch airstrikes on more Iranian targets, including energy facilities. Trump has not yet made a final decision on the next steps. Both in private and in public, he has stated that he prefers a diplomatic resolution to the dispute with Iran. Some American officials say Trump is reluctant to deploy ground troops.