A badly weakened Iran will no longer intimidate or threaten its neighbors in the same way. The regional impact could be comparable to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said that "the most intense operation against Israel and the United States is set to begin," while state outlets warned that "revenge is coming."

From being just a fringe risk, conflict in the Middle East has become a top worry for investors unsettled by the prospect of a power struggle in Iran and a protracted regional war, with ramifications for everything from global trade to inflation.

More than 100 people were injured and at least four were killed after Iran fired hundreds of missiles and drones at Gulf cities, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha.

Just as it has a long history, the Middle East has experienced a long line of conflicts both within and outside the region. Key conflicts occurring in the area include the Israel-Palestinian conflict,

The Middle East reacts to the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran which killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

By Heejin Kim and Nidhi Verma SEOUL/NEW DELHI, March 1 (Reuters) - Asian governments and refiners rushed to assess oil stockpiles as well as alternative shipping routes and supplies as the Iran conflict disrupted shipping in the crucial Strait of Hormuz,

The civil aviation ministry said it is working closely with airlines, airport operators and other stakeholders to proactively monitor the situation and ensure passenger support. Major Indian airports remain on operational alert to handle possible diversions and manage terminal crowds,