US President Donald Trump did not rule out, on Tuesday, approving a ground operation against Iran, including the oil-rich Kharg Island, amid the ongoing military escalation between Washington and Tehran.

Trump clarified, in an interview with Fox News, that he cannot reveal his plans regarding the seizure of Kharg Island, considering that disclosing that would be unwise at the present time.

The US president indicated that he does not rule out launching a ground campaign against Iran if he deems it appropriate, adding: 'At some point, we may do that, but I think it is unlikely.' He noted that there is sometimes a need for a ground campaign, but other forces might carry it out on behalf of the United States, pointing out that his forces have already attacked Kharg Island two or three times.

Trump added that the United States' objectives regarding the Iranian nuclear program have been largely achieved, emphasizing that the only way to negotiate with Iran is through military force.

Iranian Reactions

For his part, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed that his country will respond practically to Trump's threats, saying that Iran will defend every inch of its territory.