The US is considering plans to occupy or blockade Iran's Kharg Island to pressure Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to sources. The move could put U.S. troops more directly in the line of fire and could result in a significant increase in global energy prices. The operation, if approved, would require more troops. The White House and the Pentagon are also considering sending even more troops to the region. While Kharg is crucial to Iran's oil industry, there is no guarantee that taking it would convince Tehran to make peace on Trump's terms. The situation has exacerbated the war by delaying the end of March's scheduled trip to China due to the crisis.