Israel Attacks Iran Nuclear Sites; Oil Surges On War Fears | Horizons Middle East & Africa 6/13/2025

Geopolitical Risk & Market Impact - Israel launched Operation Rising Line, targeting Iranian nuclear sites, escalating Middle East tensions [1][62] - Oil prices surged as much as 13% due to fears of a wider war impacting a third of global crude production [2][63] - Brent crude rose nearly 9%, trading around $75.47-$75.48 per barrel [3] - S&P futures fell over 1.5%, reflecting a risk-off mood in the markets [4][120] - Gold prices increased over 1%, nearing record highs as investors sought safe-haven assets [5][47] Potential Economic Consequences - A sustained rise in energy prices could lead to higher transport costs in Asia, limiting central banks' ability to cut rates and support domestic demand [51] - The Strait of Hormuz, through which a quarter of global oil output passes, is a potential target, threatening to cause oil prices to skyrocket [30][44] - The US dollar experienced a knee-jerk jump due to risk aversion, but its strength is unlikely to last due to underlying macro weaknesses and anticipated Federal Reserve interest rate cuts [67][69] Strategic Analysis & Regional Response - Israel believes Iran was rapidly moving towards weaponization, potentially building nine atom bombs in the coming months, justifying the operation [13][14] - The US administration signaled a "proceed with caution" approach, allowing Israel to take the risk in hopes of breaking the diplomatic stalemate [24][25] - Oman condemned Israel's actions, and Gulf states are likely to distance themselves, emphasizing neutrality and signaling to Iran they have no interest in escalation [32][33][34] - Iran's armed forces chief of staff was reportedly killed in the strikes [37] - Saudi Arabia condemned Israel's attack on Iran, describing the incident as blatant [74]