Hezbollah Prepares Missile Response as IRGC Takes Operational Control Amid Iran Strike Fears

Group 1: Regional Conflict Dynamics - The Middle East is on the brink of a broader conflict as Hezbollah prepares its missile arsenal for a potential retaliatory strike against Israel, following a breakdown in diplomatic efforts and a U.S. ultimatum to Iran [2][9] - Reports indicate that IRGC officers have taken control of Hezbollah's operations, overseeing the reconstruction of missile units to ensure a unified response to threats against Iran [3][9] - Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have intensified, targeting Hezbollah's missile array and resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking operatives, indicating a collapse of the 2024 ceasefire agreement [5][9] Group 2: Market Reactions - Financial markets have reacted to the escalating tensions, with Brent Crude futures rising over 2.4% and warnings that conflict in the Strait of Hormuz could push prices toward $120 per barrel [4] - The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) has spiked to 24.5, reflecting increased market volatility, while safe-haven assets like Gold have seen a surge in demand as investors seek protection from potential disruptions [6][9] - Asian markets, including the Nikkei 225, have dropped over 1.2% as investors adopt a "risk-off" posture amid rising geopolitical risks [9]