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.

The US president insists Washington has played no part in ally Israel's bombing campaign, but also warned Iran his patience is wearing thin as the conflict enters a sixth day.

Chinese commentators have said that Iran might have fared better against Israeli strikes if had been equipped with Chinese weaponry

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

The G7 statement urged that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in middle east, including a ceasefire in Gaza.

The USS Nimitz and its carrier strike group are steaming west from the Pacific as part of an overall buildup of US military firepower

Since shortly after it was founded in 1948, Israel has been intent on building a nuclear program to ensure its survival.

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.