On March 19, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources, that the United States is increasing its military presence in the Middle East and may seize a key Iranian oil export hub to compel Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz. The report stated that approximately 2,200 Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit are en route to the Middle East aboard an amphibious assault ship from Japan, expected to arrive in about a week. The U.S. may use this force to occupy Hark Island as leverage to pressure Iran into opening the Strait of Hormuz. Former U.S. Central Command Chief Frank McKenzie stated, 'The (U.S. military) could destroy its (Hark Island's) oil infrastructure, which would cause irreparable damage to Iran and the global economy. Alternatively, it could occupy it as a bargaining chip.' (Xinhua News Agency)