How Iran Controls the Strait of Hormuz With These Islands | WSJ

Key Concepts

• Strategic Chokepoint: The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for global oil transit.
• Power Projection: The use of militarized islands to extend military influence and control over regional waters.
• Economic Vulnerability: The reliance of the Iranian economy on specific oil export infrastructure.
• Asymmetric Warfare: The use of tunnels, drone sites, and mine-laying capabilities to counter superior conventional forces.
• Geopolitical Contestation: Territorial disputes over islands (Abu Musa, Greater/Lesser Tunb) between Iran and the UAE.

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1. Kharg Island: The Economic Lifeline

Kharg Island is identified as Iran’s most critical economic asset, located 20 miles off the coast.

• Economic Significance: It serves as the primary export hub for 90% of Iran’s oil, with major shipments directed to markets like China.
• Military Status: While the U.S. has conducted strikes on military targets on the island, it has deliberately avoided the oil infrastructure to prevent a global economic shock.
• Strategic Dilemma: Analysts suggest that while seizing the island could provide the U.S. with a "bargaining chip" to force the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, military strategists warn that occupying forces would be highly vulnerable to counter-attacks, effectively becoming "sitting ducks."

2. Contested Islands in the Strait of Hormuz

The islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb are central to regional tensions.

• Territorial Dispute: Controlled by Iran since 1971, these islands are also claimed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
• Militarization: Over the last 50 years, Iran has transformed these islands into fortified strongholds. According to the military think tank Janes, these islands feature:
  • Airstrips capable of supporting fixed-wing aircraft, drones, and helicopters.
  • Extensive networks of bunkers and naval facilities.
  • Integrated air defense systems and coastal artillery.
• Function: These assets allow Iran to maintain persistent surveillance of the Strait and provide forward-operating bases for offensive naval operations.

3. Qeshm and Larak: Naval Control Points

• Qeshm Island: As the largest landmass at the mouth of the Strait, it serves as a primary base for Iranian naval vessels. It is notable for its use of underground tunnels to hide and protect missile systems.
• Larak Island: Functions as a "toll booth" for maritime traffic, where Iranian forces monitor and potentially influence the passage of commercial vessels through the Strait.

4. U.S. Military Posture and Strategic Risks

The deployment of additional U.S. forces—including Marines, sailors, and soldiers—has sparked debate regarding potential ground operations.

• The "Boots on the Ground" Dilemma: Despite previous commitments to avoid ground invasions, the recent deployment of thousands of troops (with potential for 10,000 more) suggests a shift in strategy.
• Strategic Options: The U.S. faces a binary choice:
  1. Raids/Captures: Attempting to seize strategic islands to neutralize Iranian control, which carries high risks of attrition and escalation.
  2. Containment: Avoiding extended ground operations, which risks leaving the critical waterway under the effective control of Tehran.

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Synthesis and Conclusion

Iran has successfully militarized its southern islands to create a multi-layered defense and power-projection network. By integrating economic hubs like Kharg Island with fortified military outposts in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has created a high-stakes environment for the U.S. and its allies. The core challenge for U.S. policymakers is balancing the need to secure the Strait of Hormuz against the significant military risks of occupying fortified Iranian territory, which could lead to a protracted and costly conflict. The islands remain the primary leverage points for both Iranian economic survival and its ability to disrupt global energy markets.