The Trump administration has targets but no endgame.

U.S. allies and partners in the Middle East again are urging restraint from both the United States and Iran as the Trump administration warns of a possible strike and builds up its military presence in the region.

Maritime intelligence warns of heightened risks for U.S.-flagged vessels in Persian Gulf as Iran threatens "immediate, all-out" response to any American military action.

Oil rose slightly on signs the U.S. ‍may engage in dialogue with Iran over its nuclear program, reducing concern over potential supply disruptions from a U.S. attack.

An Iranian government official said some children had been detained, the first such acknowledgment in weeks of anti-government protests.

The president advised Iran make a deal or "the next attack will be far worse."

Iran has so far continued to stick to its long-standing red lines for any negotiations, while the US wants Iran to cease nuclear enrichment and disband its ballistic missile programme.

Trump on Wednesday revived the threat of military action against Iran and warned “time is running out” for a deal limiting its nuclear program.

Iran plans a military drill in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping lane. The drill, scheduled for Sunday and Monday, could involve live fire in the area where a fifth of the world's traded oil passes.