Pakistan, May 5 -- Fresh military exchanges between the United States (US) and Iran have intensified tensions in the Gulf as both sides compete for influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.

Read More: Iran Releases New Map Claiming Control of Strait of Hormuz

On Monday, the US and Iran exchanged missile, drone, and naval attacks amid ongoing disputes over maritime access through the strait, which has remained heavily disrupted since conflict escalated earlier this year. US President Donald Trump announced a new initiative, called "Project Freedom," aimed at helping stranded commercial vessels pass through the strategic waterway under US military protection.

Trump claimed US forces shot down seven Irania...