Iran and US harden positions as Tehran keeps its grip on Strait of Hormuz

Rescue workers at a residential building hit in an overnight strike in Tabriz, Iran (Matin Hashemi/AP, File)

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 formalise its control over the crucial Strait of Hormuz while Washington prepared for the arrival of US combat forces in the region that could be used on the ground in the Islamic Republic.