Iran, US Harden Their Positions as Tehran Keeps Its Grip on Hormuz

Iran and the United States hardened their positions as diplomacy aimed at reaching a ceasefire in the war in the Middle East appeared to be faltering on Thursday. 

Tehran moved to formalize its control over the crucial Strait of Hormuz while Washington prepared for the arrival of U.S. combat forces in the region that could be used on the ground in the Islamic Republic. 

Iran is instituting a “de facto ‘toll booth’ regime,” industry experts say, with some ships paying in Chinese yuan to pass



through the strait, where 20 pc of all traded oil and natural gas is transported in peacetime.

Meanwhile, a strike group anchored by the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli drew closer to the Mideast with some 2,500 Marines. 

Also, at least 1,000 paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne have been ordered to the region. 

The troop movements don’t guarantee U.S. President Donald Trump will try to use force to compel Iran to open the strait and halt its attacks on Gulf Arab states.