The United States has launched targeted military strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, marking a major escalation in Middle East tensions. President Donald Trump described the attack as a “spectacular military success,” claiming it obliterated key Iranian enrichment sites, Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordo.
Markets are bracing for impact. The strikes, carried out late Saturday using B-2 bombers and Tomahawk cruise missiles, have raised fears of severe oil supply disruptions and further instability in the region. Brent crude, which has already risen 20% in the past month to $79.04, could spike to as high as $130 per barrel, according to JPMorgan analysts.
Iran Strikes Back, Markets Rattle
In swift retaliation, Iran launched missiles at Israel, with explosions reported over Jerusalem. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi condemned the U.S. action as “outrageous,” while Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation labelled it “savage.” Officials in Tehran blamed the International Atomic Energy Agency for enabling the attacks.
As markets prepare to reopen, traders expect oil prices to surge in a knee-jerk reaction. Mark Spindel of Potomac River Capital warned that the economic fallout could hurt consumer confidence and derail interest rate cuts in the U.S., already strained by trade tensions.
U.S. Politics Divided, Global Consequences Loom
Reactions in Washington were sharply divided. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell praised the strikes as a strong message to Iran. In contrast, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called the move a “grave constitutional violation,” warning of potential impeachment. Congressman Jim McGovern echoed fears of another “open-ended” war.
Analysts are split. Jamie Cox of Harris Financial suggested the strike could force Iran to seek peace, potentially stabilizing markets. But Oxford Economics warned that if Iran blocks the Strait of Hormuz, the global economy could suffer major shocks.
As the Pentagon prepares to release its damage assessment, the world watches closely. Iran’s next move could determine whether this crisis spirals into wider conflict or opens a path to fragile diplomacy.
