Key Geopolitical Flashpoints in the Middle East and Southeast Asia Escalating Israel-Hezbollah Clashes in Lebanon Clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon have escalated, prompting several countries to urge their citizens to leave Lebanon and the U.S. to prepare evacuation plans[1][2][3]. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah is part of the broader rivalry between Iran's network of state and non-state actors, and a counter-front of traditional Western allies centered on Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Israel[3]. Houthi Attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden have rerouted container shipping from the Suez Canal around southern Africa, adding 10-14 days to transit and requiring more fuel[2][4]. Over 10% of global trade, 12% of seaborne oil and 8% of liquefied natural gas pass through the Red Sea[4]. The attacks have disrupted global supply chains and raised the risk of a regional war in the Middle East[4]. Tensions Between China a...
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