Iran closes Strait of Hormuz again as ceasefire deadline grows closer

The stand-off over the Strait of Hormuz escalated again on Saturday, as Iran reversed its reopening of the crucial waterway and fired on ships attempting to pass.

The move came after the US said it would not end its blockade of the Islamic Republic's ports.

New attacks on the Strait threatened to deepen the global energy crisis and push the countries into renewed conflict, as multiple ships attempting to transit the Strait reported attacks.

It comes as the fragile ceasefire deal between the US and Iran is due to expire by Wednesday. Iran's deputy foreign minister said the country was not yet ready for a new round of face-to-face talks with Washington.

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