Its nuclear programme is a rare area where Iran might claim to retain the initiative. Late last year Iran was producing around 7kg of uranium enriched to 60%—a stone’s throw from weapon’s grade—each month,

But they warn that, if that fails, Iran is on a collision course with the west. European powers that opposed Trump’s maximum pressure during his first term have become more angry with Iran’s behaviour, including the continued expansion of its nuclear activity, its arms sales to Russia and its alleged targeting of citizens in the west.

Iran holds tremendous sway inside Iraq despite the presence of US troops, setting up a tug-of-war for the incoming Trump administration.

Israel has arrested two soldiers on suspicion of spying for Iran in return for money, its police force said on Monday.

Police in Israel have arrested two soldiers accused of working on behalf of Iran, including passing along secrets about the country’s Iron Dome missile defense system.