Lt. Gen. Kellogg to Newsmax: 'Put a Stranglehold' on Iran's Economy
Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg argues that ending Iran’s conflict hinges on decisively disrupting its oil-driven economy through targeted ground action rather than broad diplomacy. He proposes seizing strategic locations such as Kharg Island and Bandar Abbas to choke revenue, using a limited, two-site operation rather than a full-scale invasion. Kellogg warns that without swift, forceful measures the conflict could endure for years or decades, urging a decisive finish. The outlook frames a realignment from diplomacy to coercive military pressure as a path to rapid geopolitical change.
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Kellogg appeared on Newsmax to advocate a strategy of choking Iran's economic lifeline, framing it as the simplest path to end the conflict.
He proposes a limited, targeted military approach that emphasizes ground operations to control terrain tied to Iran’s revenue, rather than broad, prolonged diplomacy.
Kharg Island is identified as a pivotal target because of its central role in oil exports, described as a major leverage point for Iran’s economy.
Bandar Abbas near the Strait of Hormuz is highlighted as another critical location that could be seized to disrupt shipping lanes and further cripple the regime’s revenue.
Kellogg suggests deploying two amphibious-ready groups and airborne forces (such as paratroopers from the 82nd or Rangers) to secure these sites from the coast and nearby waters.
He argues that gaining control over these locations would immediately apply pressure on Tehran and demonstrate decisive action, potentially ending the cycle of conflict.
Kellogg references a 1980s remark by President Trump about taking oil and Kharg Island to finish the job, framing it as a precedent for the proposed strategy.