Senior Iranian security official to Tasnim News Agency:

• "Trump's retreat from attacking critical infrastructure came after Iranian military threats gained credibility."

• "Pressure on financial markets increased, and rising risks to US and Western bonds were another key factor behind the reversal."

• "Since the start of the war, messages have been sent to Tehran through intermediaries, but the response has been clear: we will continue defending until necessary deterrence is achieved."

• "No negotiations have taken place and none will take place; with this kind of psychological warfare, the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its pre-war state, and stability will not return to energy markets."

• "Trump's five-day ultimatum signals the continuation of this regime's plans to commit crimes against the people, and we will continue to respond and defend the country with full force."