Global markets experienced sharp fluctuations following the U.S. targeted airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities. The operation, which struck the Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan sites with high-precision missiles, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran. While American officials described the attacks as a necessary intervention, Iranian authorities denounced the strikes as a direct violation of international sovereignty.
In response to the attacks, Iran’s parliament urgently passed a resolution supporting the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, carrying roughly 20 percent of global oil shipments. The possibility of restricted access to this route immediately alarmed energy markets, causing oil prices to spike sharply. Brent crude briefly surged past $78 per barrel, while U.S. crude exceeded $74 before stabilizing later in the trading session.
Stock markets reacted with mixed signals. Major Asian indexes, including Singapore’s benchmark, fell as investors feared the escalation could destabilize regional trade. Meanwhile, U.S. stock markets showed moderate resilience, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq registering small gains, reflecting investor confidence that the conflict may remain contained for now. Currency markets saw the U.S. dollar strengthen, as risk-averse investors turned to safe-haven assets amid growing geopolitical uncertainty.
Iran’s military has already launched retaliatory missile strikes targeting Israeli positions in response to the U.S. operation. Initial reports confirm that several rockets were fired toward military sites in northern Israel, intensifying fears of a broader regional conflict. Iranian officials also reiterated their threat to disrupt maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz if further attacks occur. Tehran’s leadership has signaled that additional responses are under active consideration, keeping the region on high alert.
According to the latest updates from local sources, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has now deployed fast-attack vessels to key positions near the Strait of Hormuz. Satellite imagery and naval tracking systems confirm the movement of Iranian military ships in the area, signaling a serious intent to enforce potential maritime restrictions. This tangible escalation has forced international shipping companies to begin rerouting several oil tankers, anticipating possible delays and disruptions. The situation remains fluid as global powers closely monitor both Iran’s naval maneuvers and the risk of further military engagements.