The map shows the Persian Gulf side of the Straits of Hormuz. Note those FIVE small islands (circled in red) that 'guard' the entrance to the straits. The islands are Farur, Greater and Lesser Tunb, Siri and Abu Musa. All of them belong to Iran. Abu Musa is contested by the UAE.
The military analysts say that to secure the straits permanently the Americans will have to occupy these five islands. Once the Americans occupy these islands they have complete control of the Straits of Hormuz. Iran will be out of the picture. Two of these islands, although small, have airstrips where American aircraft can land and take off. Again if that happens it will be complete dominance of the straits by the US.
Occupying these five islands may also be a prerequisite for the Americans taking and occupying Kharg Island - further up the gulf. Or they may do them all at once.
The amphibious landing shup aka helicopter carrier USS Tripoli is already in the area. On their way are about 5000 Marines and sailors of the Marine Expeditionary Force from Japan. There be more fireworks.
