The conflict between Iran and the United States entered its 135th day on Monday, with both sides continuing to contest control of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz despite an interim agreement aimed at paving the way for a permanent ceasefire.

Weekend exchanges in the Middle East threaten to collapse a fragile interim deal aimed at ending the war.

The number of ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz has fallen amid the conflict as the UN cautions "catastrophic consequences".

By CUI HAIPEI in Dubai, UAE and JAN YUMUL in Hong Kong |

Over the weekend, Iran and the United States traded taunts and strikes over who controls the Strait of Hormuz.