Iran has issued the terrifying warning that it sees every threat as "real and credible", including psychological warfare. Acting Defence Minister Majid ibn al Reza said, "We ‌will neither be caught off ‌guard nor remain passive", according to state media.

He said the country would use any threats as an opportunity to increase military readiness, strengthen deterrence, and enhance military capabilities. Earlier this week, Tehran warned Washington that it would retaliate against any of its "aggression" following reports that Donald Trump was considering launching further strikes.

He claimed to have been asked by Iran and other Middle Eastern countries to "hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to".

Mr Trump added that a peace deal must include the "complete and total" reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and "an end to Iran’s nuclear threat".

He wrote on Truth Social: "The U.S.A. is locked and loaded and ready to go against the Islamic Republic of Iran, at levels of Military Terror, Strength, and Power not seen since World War II.

"Despite this, we have just been asked by Iran, and other Middle Eastern Countries, to hold off any attack in that the perimeters of a deal has been agreed to.

"This would include the Immediate, Complete, and Total OPENING OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT, and an end to Iran’s nuclear threat. Based on this request, I have agreed, for the future benefit of the WORLD and, likewise, the survival of a successful and prosperous Iran, to cancel the attack, subject to being able to rapidly make a DEAL.

"The Country of Israel joins me in this commitment. Get to work, everybody, and get it DONE. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP."