
Summary: The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran in mid-2025 has triggered significant volatility in global energy markets and renewed fears of inflation, particularly through surging oil prices. As financial institutions adjust forecasts and central banks monitor the situation closely, equity markets respond with caution. However, this geopolitical tension has also diverted global attention away from the deepening humanitarian and economic crisis in Gaza. With aid disruptions, widespread infrastructure collapse, and soaring unemployment, Gaza faces an unprecedented socioeconomic breakdown. This article examines how the Israel–Iran war is reshaping global economic dynamics while simultaneously pushing the Gaza tragedy out of the international spotlight.
Introduction
The recent military escalation between Israel and Iran has sent shockwaves through global markets, spiking oil prices and intensifying inflationary concerns. Since mid-June 2025, the two regional rivals have exchanged direct strikes, triggering fears of a broader war that could involve major powers like the United States. While the world remains fixated on this confrontation, a parallel tragedy is unfolding in Gaza, largely sidelined by international media and diplomacy. This article explores the economic implications of the Israel-Iran conflict and how it has shifted attention away from the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
Oil Prices Surge Amid Middle East Tensions
The most immediate global impact of the conflict has been the sharp rise in oil prices. Brent crude briefly surged past $81 per barrel, the highest level in five months, driven by concerns that hostilities might spread across the region and disrupt energy supplies. Analysts warn that if the conflict escalates and results in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, prices could skyrocket well above $120 per barrel. Such a scenario would strain energy-dependent economies and trigger inflation worldwide.
Leading financial institutions have already started adjusting their forecasts. Central banks may be forced to reconsider interest rate strategies to curb potential inflation, while import-reliant nations in Asia, Africa, and Europe brace for higher logistics and production costs.
Markets React With Caution
Equity markets have responded…