China officially launches its first domestically-built aircraft carrier, the second carrier in its naval fleet, at a key base on the shores of the disputed South China Sea, state media say.

A Chinese envoy warns the UK and the US against interference in Hong Kong’s affairs.

The Russian defense chief says Moscow sees no need to increase its military spending unlike the US as the country is already capable of defending itself against threats.

A large aircraft carrier strike force that the US sent to the Middle East in May to “deter” Iran has been “steering clear” of the country for fear of Iranian military strikes in a potential conflict.

The US aircraft carrier sent by the White House to the Middle East amid strains with Iran remains outside the Persian Gulf in an effort to deescalate tensions.

Iraq’s ambassador to Moscow says Iraq will not allow the United States to use Iraqi soil to launch attacks against Iran, as Washington ratchets up tensions with Tehran.

Iran says it is at peak of its defense preparedness to counter any threats.

Spain temporarily withdraws its frigate from the Middle East-bound combat group, led by an American aircraft carrier, as tensions heighten between the US and Iran.

Iran’s foreign minister says the Islamic Republic is not to be blamed if the region hates the United States and its allies.

Iran’s top security body dismisses the US’s “gauche” attempt at psychological warfare.