The US State and Defense departments on Wednesday made efforts to arrange the departure of non-essential personnel from locations around the Middle East, according to US officials and sources familiar with the efforts.

Israel’s attack on Iran has catapulted their long-running conflict into what could become a wider, more dangerous regional war and potentially drive prices higher for both businesses and households.

A paratrooper carries the Iranian flag over the shrine of Iran's late leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini during the National Army Day parade ceremony in Tehran, Iran, April 18, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via REUTERS/File Photo

What Happened in Markets Today Israel launched a broad air campaign against Iran, targeting its nuclear capabilities and military/political leadership. Markets were rattled after Israel said it had detected dozens of missiles launched from Iran and was working to intercept them.

Traders on Friday exchanged the most $80 West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil call options since January, expecting more upside to prices after Israeli airstrikes on Iran sparked fears of a wider Middle East conflict.

Iran condemns Israel's overnight strikes on military and nuclear facilities while threatening US bases in the Middle East as the Trump administration orders partial evacuations.

Israel’s attacks on Iran renewed fears of war between the countries and immediately threatened the region’s economy.

U.S. investors on Friday sought refuge in safe-haven assets like the dollar and gold, as oil prices surged after Iran retaliated against Israel's biggest-ever military strike against the major crude producer.