Israel-Iran Strikes Spark Regional and Oil Market Turmoil

Israel has carried out its most extensive strikes yet against Iran, targeting nuclear facilities, military installations, and senior Iranian leaders, resulting in reported high-profile casualties within Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and nuclear program. The attacks followed IAEA findings that Iran was not complying with nuclear safeguards and were driven by Israeli concerns over Iran's uranium enrichment. Prime Minister Netanyahu has threatened further action, while Iran is expected to retaliate, raising the risk of wider regional conflict and possible U.S. involvement. The strikes have triggered sharp volatility in global oil markets, causing prices to spike nearly 8% despite no direct attacks on energy infrastructure. The offensive has also deepened divisions in U.S. political circles, particularly among Trump supporters, as President Trump called for renewed nuclear negotiations while defending Israel and warning of additional strikes if diplomacy fails. The confrontation comes amid heightened Middle East tensions since the 2023 Gaza war, signaling a dangerous escalation between Israel and Iran.