The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran came under fresh strain on Monday after US forces carried out what Washington described as “self-defence” strikes on Iranian missile launch sites and boats allegedly attempting to lay mines near the Strait of Hormuz, even as diplomatic talks to end the conflict continued behind closed doors.

Tehran says the gap in position with Washington has narrowed - but the Strait of Hormuz remains a sticking point

The US launched 'self-defense strikes' inside southern Iran on Monday night, escalating tensions in the region as Trump pushes a fragile peace deal.