"China opposes the intensification of contradictions and the expansion of conflicts, and is deeply concerned about the consequences that may be brought about by Israel's actions," said the country'sUN Ambassador Fu Cong.

Undue and harmful public speculation won't help the families of the victims, first responders or investigators, says former airline captain Natasha Heap.

Beyond Iranian retaliation to Israels strikes, how the other Middle East countries and the US respond thereafter will determine whether the region faces chaos or a bigger nuclear threat, says NUS Middle East Institutes Carl Skadian.

In a major escalation, Israel on Jun 13 launched airstrikes against Irans military targets and nuclear program, as well as targeting scientists and generals.

Combs' attorney Marc Agnifilosaid the need for a public trial was an important issue, a constitutional issue and objected to so much happening out of the earshot of his client.