The United States and Israel are reportedly preparing for a potential new military strike against Iran, to take place following the US midterm elections on November 3, 2026. The plans encompass a range of strategic targets, including energy facilities, nuclear installations, and Iran’s missile and drone arsenals. These preparations have raised concerns regarding a potential escalation of conflict in the Middle East, which could destabilize the geopolitical landscape and global energy markets.
Military preparations by both nations have reportedly intensified, with air operation exercises conducted over Iraq to test strike capabilities against strategic targets. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has also met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the possibility of further military operations. One scenario under consideration involves an intensive three-day strike, intended to exert economic and military pressure on Iran and compel it to return to the negotiating table regarding its nuclear program.
Nevertheless, US President Donald Trump has yet to grant final approval for such an attack. Washington remains open to diplomatic channels concerning Iran’s nuclear program and the control of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical artery for global energy trade. Meanwhile, Iran has warned that any new strike could trigger retaliatory actions against Saudi Arabian oil facilities, data centers, and undersea internet cables. Such threats increase the risk of the conflict spreading across various nations in the Middle East.
This uncertainty threatens to heighten volatility in global financial markets, particularly affecting the prices of crude oil, gold, and the US dollar. Attacks on Iranian energy facilities or the oil infrastructure of Gulf states could exacerbate supply disruptions and trigger a surge in global oil prices. Such a scenario risks intensifying global inflationary pressures while complicating efforts by central banks to loosen monetary policy. Investors are expected to closely monitor diplomatic developments and any decisions emerging from Washington following the US midterm elections to gauge the future direction of the markets.