US military

Earlier on Monday, Trump had postponed for five days a plan to hit Iran's power plants and energy infrastructure. Iran later denied that it had engaged in negotiations with the United States.

Despite weeks of speculation, a US operation to reopen the Strait of Hormuz is not imminent, as officials weigh risks and alternative strategies.

US CENTCOM chief Admiral Brad Cooper tells Iran International that the Islamic regime intensified strikes on civilian targets as its military capabilities decline and pressure mounts in the conflict.

US President Donald Trump has not yet sent a request for the Senate and House of Representatives to approve additional funding, and his administration has made clear that the number could change.

"If the enemy attacks fuel and energy infrastructure, all energy, information technology, and desalination infrastructure belonging to the US and the regime in the region will be targeted," Iran said.

Trump told reporters on Thursday that he was not putting troops "anywhere," but that if he were to, he would not tell journalists.

Kataib Hezbollah said it might pause attacks on US targets in Iraq, but its strict and unlikely conditions suggest strikes could resume soon.

The investigation pre-dates Joe Kent's departure as the head of the National Counterterrorism Center on Tuesday, Semafor added.

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard testifies that Iran's regime, though weakened, is still capable of targeting US and allied interests in the Middle East.

It is still possible that the US could use ground forces in some fashion. Further, the IDF has declined to provide confidence that the threat will be dealt with before the end of the war.