Military Action in Iran Would Likely Be a 'Multi-Week Endeavor': Former Marine Intel Officer

Retired Lt. Col. Hal Kempfer discusses the strategic advantages offered by Diego Garcia island.
Published: 2/18/2026, 11:59:17 PM EST

President Donald Trump is warning Britain not to give up control of Diego Garcia, the largest island of the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, which has been under British control since 1814. Trump says it could serve as a base to counter military action from Iran.

Retired Lt. Col. Hal Kempfer, a former Marine intelligence officer and now the CEO of Global Risk Intelligence and Planning Inc., discusses the strategic advantages offered by the island.