Middle East

US President Donald Trump has threatened to target Iranian power plants if Tehran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.

February consumer price data to be released on Wednesday will shape the Reserve Bank's thinking on interest rates ahead of a crucial meeting in May.

Donald Trump has signalled the US may reduce military action against Iran as strikes hit Natanz and fears grow over oil supply disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Middle East war has spun into a dangerous new direction with Iranian missiles hitting near Israel's main nuclear research site.

Global tensions are impacting fuel deliveries to Australia, with Chris Bowen confirming shipments have been delayed amid the Strait of Hormuz disruption.

Australia has joined international allies in committing to protect the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping lane, which has been virtually shut by the Iran conflict.

ANDREW GREENE: Questions remain unanswered over the role of Australian Navy personnel aboard a US submarine involved in a strike on an Iranian warship.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has batted away claims by President Donald Trump that Australia should be getting more involved in the Middle East conflict.

Republicans should not panic, insists the White House. ‘NO PANICANS!’, it tweeted on March 14th.

US President Donald Trump has taken a thinly-veiled swipe at the Albanese Government, saying he was ‘surprised’ Australia said no to joining American military efforts against Iran.

Donald Trump says the US is considering winding down its military efforts in the Middle East, saying his country’s objectives against Iran were ’very close’ to being met.

Three US officials have revealed the military is deploying thousands of additional troops to the war-stricken region.

Base and precious metals have tumbled since the Middle East war started as investors sold to move into cash on worries about global growth.