"Iran Blasts and Red Sea Alert Escalate Concerns of Expanding Middle East Conflict"

The Middle East faces escalating tensions after deadly blasts in Iran killed 84 at a memorial for Gen. Qassem Soleimani and injured over 210, with no group claiming responsibility. Concurrently, a drone strike in Beirut killed a senior Hamas leader, with Lebanon accusing Israel of the attack, which Israel has not confirmed. Hezbollah's leader has threatened retaliation if Israel increases tensions, amidst ongoing Israel-Lebanon border skirmishes. Additionally, the U.S. and allies have warned Yemen's Houthis over Red Sea attacks on commercial shipping, emphasizing the need for maritime security and the free flow of trade, as these events contribute to rising oil prices and fears of a wider regional war.