Israel Strikes Iran Nuclear Sites Trigger Global Market Turmoil

Israel launched targeted strikes on Iranian nuclear sites following a formal censure of Iran by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for failing to disclose nuclear activities, escalating regional tensions and prompting fears of wider conflict. The strikes caused oil prices to spike by over 10%, with investors moving to safer assets, reflecting concerns about potential disruptions to oil supplies and broader economic instability. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed harsh retaliation, while Iran announced plans to open another nuclear enrichment site, though uranium enrichment levels remain below weapons-grade. The IAEA reported no elevated radiation levels after the strikes but warned of public safety risks and urged restraint to prevent further escalation. The economic fallout included airspace closures and canceled flights in the region, with global stock markets reacting negatively, particularly in Europe and Asia. These developments come amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty influenced by President Trump's tariff policies and ongoing international efforts to monitor Iran's nuclear activities.