US strikes Iran after surprise missile attack, dashing hopes of de-escalation
U.S. Central Command confirmed strikes on Iranian targets after Tehran launched a surprise missile attack, ending weeks of speculation that the standoff was heading toward de-escalation. The Trump administration described the response as proportional. Markets reacted immediately, with oil prices jumping on renewed supply concerns.
The U.S. military struck military targets inside Iran in response to a surprise missile attack Tehran carried out the previous day, officials said. CENTCOM described the operation as limited and proportional, adding that civilian infrastructure was not targeted. The exchange sharply reversed weeks of diplomatic contacts that had raised hopes of an eventual ceasefire.
The White House said President Trump personally approved the response and that the operation was coordinated with regional allies. Shipping insurers are closely watching maritime traffic around the Strait of Hormuz for signs of further attacks, and some carriers have already begun rerouting vessels.
Markets reacted swiftly: oil prices rose on renewed fears of supply disruption, while demand for government bonds increased as investors sought safety. Analysts said they are closely tracking the escalation's potential impact on energy prices and global supply chains.
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