Israel and Iran have begun a new round of attacks, as the conflict between the two heavily armed rivals enters its fourth day.

The latest Middle East conflict is a combination of events that could not be prevented and the sense that countries sometimes find themselves in a struggle for existence

The U.S. is reducing non-essential diplomatic personnel in the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran over its nuclear program. The State Department's decision affects staff in Baghdad, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

Tim Kaine's resolution will require prompt debate and vote prior to using any US military force against Iran - Anadolu Ajansı

Israel launched air strikes into Iran early Friday, targeting Iran's nuclear facilities and killing top military leaders, officials and nuclear scientists in the process. Iran launched over 100 drones toward Israel on Friday morning in retaliation, and the region is bracing for further military escalation.

Amidst escalating Iran-Israel tensions, Indian refiners are exploring alternative fuel sources, particularly in West Africa, to mitigate potential supply disruptions from a possible Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Top congressional Democrats backed Israel — but several other leading Democratic senators expressed skepticism.