Israel and Iran exchange missile attacks for a third day; nuclear sites hit, death tolls rise, airspace shut, U.S. warns Tehran against retaliation.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun responded to several questions related to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran on Monday press conference, emphasizing that Chinese side will continue to communicate with relevant parties,

China has issued advisories to its citizens in Israel and Iran of the "complex and severe" security situation in those countries on Friday, adding a warning to those in Israel to prepare for possible missile and drone attacks.

Tensions between Israel and Iran have raised fears of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and LNG. Experts warn that even the threat of closure could rattle markets and push energy prices sharply higher.

The troubles in the Middle East represent a new cost of living threat at a time when households, businesses and the Chancellor can least afford it.

Asia-Pacific markets rose Monday, as investors assessed escalating Israel-Iran tensions, while awaiting a slew of data from China. Oil prices jumped as Israel and Iran exchanged strikes, while gold prices rallied, as investors sought refuge in the safe haven metal with equity markets sliding globally. The attacks continued over the weekend.

President Donald Trump's eventful week included securing a preliminary trade deal with China, deploying National Guard troops to Los Angeles, and responding to Israel's strikes on Iran.