Iran has signaled that it is preparing for another round of war with the United States and has issued public threats against Washington and its allies in an apparent bid to deter President Donald Trump from restarting the current conflict.

Iran’s newly approved Defence Minister Mehrdad Akhlaghi Ketabchi has warned Donald Trump that another American attack could put US personnel across the Middle East at risk.

Did the US ask Iran for permission to carry out a symbolic strike on Pickaxe Mountain? Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB claims Washington approached Tehran through back channels, seeking a limited attack with no Iranian retaliation. According to the report, Iran rejected the alleged proposal and placed its forces on high alert.The claim comes amid reports that the Pentagon is considering a strike on Pickaxe Mountain using the massive MOAB bomb. CNN has reported that US planners question whether the weapon could penetrate the mountain’s granite defenses, with some officials reportedly viewing the proposed strike as a possible way for President Donald Trump to claim victory and exit the conflict.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright on Sunday said the Trump administration has not broken its promise to lower gas prices as the Iran war stretches into its eighth month.