The US Federal Reserve has kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged for a third consecutive meeting, as policymakers grapple with heightened uncertainty linked to the war in the Middle East. ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT The decision, which leaves rates at a range of 3.50% to 3.75%, is expected to be the last overseen by Chair Jerome Powell — though he has signalled he plans to remain on the central bank’s board beyond the end of his term. “Developments in the Middle East are contributing to a