Tensions in the Asia-Pacific region remain sharply elevated as military pressure around Taiwan intensifies alongside the erupting Middle East conflict involving the United States and Iran.

Israeli warplanes struck central Beirut early Wednesday, destroying apartment buildings in one of the most intense attacks on the Lebanese capital in decades.

TAIPEI, March 19 (Reuters) - Taiwan's government on Thursday rejected an offer by China for what it said would be energy security if the island agreed to Beijing's rule, an expected response given Taipei has long said it does not want to be governed by its giant neighbour.