Officials say US strikes in Iran pave way for larger operations

Despite heavy blows to Iran's military since the start of the US and Israeli campaign on February 28, Tehran retains significant drone and missile capability and has attacked passing tankers as well as its Persian Gulf neighbours.

The US military has said its latest bombings have targeted Iranian air defence systems, coastal radar, missile and drone sites as well as small boats and other maritime assets.

One of the US officials said the strikes could be seen as "shaping operations" that are degrading Iranian defences in case the US military was ordered to carry out more intensive operations in the future.

"This is helping set the stage, if needed," the official said.

The Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for comment.