Trump Issues Military Ultimatum to Iran as Oil Prices Surge Past $117

Geopolitical tensions reached a breaking point as President Trump set a Tuesday deadline for Iran to reach a new diplomatic agreement. The U.S. administration threatened a targeted 4-hour military operation aimed at dismantling Iran's critical infrastructure, including power plants and bridges. In response to the escalating rhetoric, global oil prices surged past $117 per barrel as traders factored in heightened risks to the Strait of Hormuz. Market analysts note that the shift from a temporary pause to a direct military ultimatum has significantly increased global market volatility. While defense stocks and energy commodities are seeing bullish momentum, broader equity markets like the SPY are facing downward pressure due to increased risk aversion. Investors remain on high alert as the Tuesday deadline approaches, monitoring for any signs of de-escalation or further military movement.