Middle East war live: Vance says US and Iran close to agreement as ceasefire deal reported

US Vice President JD Vance said Thursday that Washington was “not there yet” on an agreement with Iran but that the two sides were close, while also noting that the US retains the ability to significantly set back Tehran’s nuclear programme.

The comments came as reports emerged of a tentative deal to extend a ceasefire and ease shipping restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, pending approval from President Donald Trump.

Follow our liveblog for the latest updates. ...