As an unprecedented Israeli attack on Iran last week sparks a spiraling conflict between the two enemy states, China has seen an opportunity to cast itself as potential peace broker – and an alternative voice to the United States.

Both countries have closed their airspaces, leaving few options for citizens of other countries seeking to leave.

Rising tensions in the Middle East will accelerate natural gas negotiations between Russia and China, with a decision likely this year, the head of a think-tank that advises the Russian government on China told Reuters.

China suggested the US use its influence with Israel to stop the conflict with Iran from spilling over, a sign Beijing is becoming increasingly concerned about the stability of a region it relies on for energy supplies.

Blasts have been heard in Tehran and sirens have sounded in Israel as US president convenes National Security Council.

In response to a question that foreign ministers of 21 Arab, Islamic and African countries issued a joint statement on Israel-Iran conflict, calling for respect of other country's national sovereignty,

President Trump returned to Washington on Tuesday to deal with the war between Iran and Israel, as the two sides exchanged deadly fire for a fifth day and Israeli officials pressed the United States to join its military campaign against Tehran.

Israel and Iran launched a new round of attacks as the conflict between the two heavily armed rivals enters its fifth day.

China is suffering a "terrible loss" in the Middle East and could convince some other party to "strike us," according to Gatestone Institute's Gordon Chang.

The planes were reportedly carrying military supplies or restricted goods, potentially reinforcing Iran’s defence capabilities amid its standoff with Israel. The secrecy surrounding the landings, including the transponder shutdowns and unannounced arrivals in Tehran,