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Market Reaction
Brent crude spikes nearly 7%; US dollar hits 2026 highs in Asian trading sessions.
Maritime Attacks
Iranian military forces attack merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz; traffic slows significantly.
Conflict Escalation
U.S. and Israeli forces begin a campaign of bombardment against Iranian targets.
The US dollar is surging toward 2026 peaks as escalating conflict in the Middle East drives Brent crude toward $100. Markets are bracing for a prolonged inflationary shock as the Strait of Hormuz remains restricted, potentially forcing central banks into a more hawkish stance.
A sharp escalation in Middle East hostilities has triggered a global flight to the U.S. dollar, as surging energy prices impose a "direct tax" on the Eurozone economy. With Brent crude hitting its highest level since mid-2024 and European gas prices jumping 70%, the euro has fallen to a three-month low, complicating the European Central Bank's inflation battle.