•Iran's confrontation with the US escalates, with threats to energy targets and unconfirmed attacks on facilities in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait.
•Brent crude surges over 5% to $108.70 per barrel; UK natural gas prices jump nearly 8% amid rising tensions.
•Experts warn of potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for 20% of global crude oil and LNG.
•Rising energy prices pose a new inflation threat, impacting manufacturing and transport costs globally, especially for oil-importing nations like India.
•Global stock markets experience sharp declines: Gift Nifty drops 1.35%, Dow Jones 0.80%, and S&P 0.50%, reflecting shaken investor confidence.
