Iran and the United States appear to be at an impasse, with each side hardening its position over talks and setting the stage for another potential escalation in the Middle East conflict. Thousands more U.S. troops are nearing the region as Israel sends additional forces into southern Lebanon to fight Hezbollah, and Tehran is tightening its grip on the crucial Strait of Hormuz. As Iran continues to fire missiles, there is no sign of an uprising against the government.