Officials say the economic chokehold is causing serious difficulties for Iran and its security forces, while making the regime frustrated and aggressive.
* Cooper said the Iranian government is withholding salaries, pensions and benefits from public sector workers, including the internal security forces and the IRGC.
Regional mediators told Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in recent days that Iran shouldn't wait until after the midterms to give its response, a regional source with direct knowledge said.
Launched the war against Iran, Trump claimed he hadn't made a decision on going to war.
* The officials said Iranian leaders were surprised twice and want to avoid a third surprise attack.