The statement comes after the United States deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Persian Gulf last week, with National Security Adviser John Bolton claiming that any attack on the US or allied interests would be met with "unrelenting force".

Republican Senator from Arkansas Thomas Cotton said Wednesday that the US can win a war against Iran with "two strikes". When answering the question about a possible conflict, the lawmaker didn't hesitate to answer in the affirmative.

"Two strikes, the first strike and the last strike", Cotton claimed. "Well, if Iran struck out militarily against the United States or against our allies in the region then I would certainly expect a devastating response".

The senator stressed, however, that he wasn't advocating military action against the Islamic Republic, but was simply explaining what Washington would do if the conflict escalates.

Read also:

Iran reacts to sabotage act on 4 ships off UAE waters

US considers plan to deploy 120,000 troops in event of Iran clash

Saudi Arabia claims that oil pipeline hit by drone