An agreement between the US and Iran to end the Middle East war has led to euphoria in global financial markets. The Strait of Hormuz reopens, oil prices drop, and the Spanish Ibex 35 index reaches an all-time high, with tourism, airlines, and banks showing significant gains.
The US and Iran will hold indirect preparatory meetings in Doha this week, facilitated by Qatari mediators, ahead of a formal deal signing in Switzerland to end a Middle East war. The talks follow intensive negotiations in Tehran.
US and Iran reach a deal to end a three-month war, with a signing set for Friday in Switzerland. The agreement includes lifting US oil sanctions and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, prompting global leaders to welcome the move towards regional stability and economic recovery.
US President Donald Trump announced an initial deal to end a Middle East war would be signed Sunday, with the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened. Pakistan's PM confirmed a peace deal framework, but Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman cautioned against immediate signing, stating it would not be tomorrow.
The US and Iran are reportedly close to a deal to end the Middle East war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan's PM stated an agreement could be finalized within 24 hours, with Iran's nuclear program terms to be settled in 60 days post-signing. Sanctions relief and asset release are also expected, though the situation in Lebanon remains uncertain.
Pakistan's PM announced that the US and Iran have agreed on the wording of a deal to end their war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement includes terms for Iran's nuclear program, sanctions relief, and the reopening of the vital shipping lane.
The Middle East conflict is significantly altering Italian summer vacation plans. Domestic travel costs have risen due to increased demand and limited availability, while international airfares have dropped sharply as fewer Italians opt for foreign destinations. Assoutenti warns of potential price gouging by the tourism sector.
Pakistan stated on Saturday that the US and Iran could finalize an agreement to end the Middle East war within 24 hours, citing optimism from both sides and ongoing negotiations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed confidence in the deal's imminent finalization, with electronic signing expected shortly after.
US forces intercepted and downed several Iranian drones over the Strait of Hormuz in recent hours, according to CENTCOM. The strait remains open for transit despite an Iranian-enforced blockade, with ongoing talks between Tehran and Washington mediated by Pakistan marked by exchanges of fire.
US and Iranian officials indicate a deal to end the Middle East war is closer than ever, with Pakistan optimistic about a breakthrough. The proposed memorandum of understanding includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and lifting US maritime blockade on Iranian ports. International oil prices dropped significantly on the news.
Pakistan's Prime Minister announced the US and Iran have agreed on the final wording of a deal to end their Middle East war. Mediators are working to finalize the agreement, which includes provisions for Iran's nuclear program and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. A signing ceremony is anticipated in the coming days.
Diplomatic indicators suggest a potential agreement between the US and Iran to end the war in the Middle East is imminent. Pakistan, acting as a mediator, stated that both sides have agreed on a draft aimed at de-escalation, with Washington indicating a signing is near and Tehran cautiously confirming a draft's completion.
The World Bank forecasts global economic growth to slow to 2.5% this year, citing the Middle East war, rising inflation, and borrowing costs. The report highlights potential disruptions to oil flows, increased fertilizer prices, and a widening gap between developed and developing nations.
Middle East war fears of stagflation are rapidly dampening investor sentiment towards junk-rated companies. The spread between BB+ and CCC-rated corporate bonds has widened to 6.4 percentage points, a 14-month high, as rising oil prices and economic slowdown threaten highly indebted firms.
South Korea experienced its first job loss in 17 months, with 40,000 fewer jobs in May compared to the previous year. The decline is attributed to the prolonged Middle East war's impact on the manufacturing sector and supply chains.
Iraq qualifies for the World Cup finals after 40 years, overcoming logistical challenges due to the Middle East war, and faces a tough group with France, Senegal, and Norway, drawing inspiration from past successes like the 2007 Asian Cup win.
Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Michele Bullock stated the Middle East conflict creates significant global and domestic inflation uncertainty, potentially impacting growth. She expressed confidence that stagflation and wage-price spirals are unlikely in Australia.
The US-Israel war on Iran, while redrawing the Middle East map, fails to erase enduring realities. Geography, the Palestinian issue, sectarian divisions, Arab state fragility, and political Islam will persist, defying the illusion that bombs can rewrite history.
Iran's Foreign Minister warns of a large-scale war in the Middle East if Beirut is attacked, as Israel intensifies operations against Hezbollah. Meanwhile, a report highlights a significant increase in Israelis, particularly young professionals, emigrating from the country.
South Korea's consumer prices surged 3.1% in May, a 26-month high, driven by a 24% jump in petroleum prices due to the Middle East war. The Bank of Korea may raise interest rates, increasing the burden on vulnerable groups. Government measures are under review.
European Commissioner Roxana Mînzatu warned that up to 1.3 million jobs in the EU are at risk due to the ongoing Middle East war, particularly impacting energy-intensive industries and lower-income households. The 2026 Spring Semester Package highlights the need for targeted support and improved skills alignment with labor market demands.
The OECD warns that the Middle East conflict is dampening global economic growth prospects. A prolonged war could slow growth to 2.1% in 2025, impacting developing nations and potentially leading to higher unemployment.
European stock markets opened lower on Friday, with Frankfurt down 0.84% and Paris down 0.37%, as investors assessed developments in the Middle East war. The ongoing conflict is fueling a rally in commodities, particularly oil and gas, with attention focused on the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Gas prices saw an upward trend, gaining 2.4% to 48.76 euros per megawatt-hour in Amsterdam, as markets monitor developments in the Middle East war.
