The United States is working to send a "powerful" message to Iran to deter its potential aggression - as concerns grow about an escalating conflict in the region. John Kirby, coordinator of the White House National Security Council, told CNN on Monday.


"We will, of course, act - if necessary - to continue to protect our troops and our facilities," the US administration official said.


In this regard, he did not rule out additional strikes and other actions, noting that this would be a "powerful signal" that Iran should absorb.


"We also take our national security interests in the region very seriously, which is why the president has deployed two aircraft carrier strike groups," the White House official added.


He also emphasized that the United States must be sure to send a strong message to all participants - not just Iran - that it takes its national security interests seriously.


"We will protect and defend our troops. And we will do so at a time and in the way we choose," Kirby said.