A US official told The Post that the scale of the US strikes on Iran on Thursday was "about twice the size of the previous night," adding that the strikes were "wide, extensive, and impactful."
The officials called Trump's statements a desperate attempt to blackmail Gulf state rulers and pressure them with threats.
Rubio said US military pressure has left Iran "eager" for deals on denuclearization and the Strait of Hormuz, as Trump halted strikes and said an agreement could be imminent.
"The USA 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," Trump claimed.
Trump claims Israel supported halting Iran strikes • Report: Iranian officials deny Trump's claims that regional leaders asked to halt strikes • IDF kills two Hamas commanders in weekend strikes
The report comes as two Israeli sources told The Jerusalem Post that Israel has raised its alert and readiness for a potential resumption of large US strikes on Iran.
Mohammad Marandi warned on Saturday that critical infrastructure across the Gulf and in Israel could be destroyed, as US officials reportedly raised concerns over missile-defense resources.
US, BoP officials discuss details of Gaza reconstruction plan • IDF destroys Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon • US officials say deal will prevent next Oct. 7
A land blockade would likely involve cooperation with Iran's neighbors, which include Iraq, Turkey, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.
One Israeli official denied the report, telling CBS that “Israel is unaware of a decision to restart full military operations, nor has it been requested to join any military actions against Iran."
Unlike some past presidents, Trump has largely stayed away from the mountaintop presidential redoubt in western Maryland, preferring to spend time at his golf resorts when not at the White House.
