Late Monday, U.S. stock futures moved higher even as the Middle East conflict widened, with Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis threatening a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia and the Donald Trump administration ordering another round of military strikes against Iran.
Dow Futures Rise Despite Escalating Middle East Conflict
Dow futures gained 31.00 points, or 0.06%, to 52,104.00, while S&P 500 futures advanced 9.25 points, or 0.12%, to 7,493.50. Nasdaq 100 futures rose 97.50 points, or 0.34%, to 28,876.25 as of around 8:42 p.m. EDT.
In commodities, WTI crude oil slipped 0.07% to $83.17 per barrel, while Brent crude fell 0.28% to $88.97 per barrel. Natural gas futures declined 0.56% to $2.844 per MMBtu.
Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar index, which tracks the greenback against a basket of currencies, stood at 100.964, down 0.03% on the day.
Asian markets were mixed, with South Korea’s KOSPI edging up 0.04% to 6,518.64 and Japan’s Nikkei 225 climbing 1.26% to 64,949.47.
Houthis Threaten Saudi Shipping As War Expands
On Monday, the Houthis said they would impose a maritime blockade on Saudi Arabia, opening a new front in the regional conflict and increasing concerns over global energy supplies, Reuters reported.
The group said the embargo would take effect “immediately,” describing the move as an “eye for an eye.”
Saudi Arabia’s coalition responded by saying it would answer with force if necessary while stepping up security for vessels transiting the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a vital shipping corridor for global trade and Saudi oil exports.
The threat comes as disruption around the Strait of Hormuz has already strained global energy markets. A prolonged closure of Bab el-Mandeb could further reduce oil flows and intensify supply concerns.
Trump Orders Fresh Iran Strikes As Ceasefire Talks Continue
U.S. Central Command said American forces launched another round of strikes against Iranian military targets Monday at President Trump’s direction, saying the operation was intended to weaken Iran’s ability to target commercial shipping.
Trump defended the military response after recent attacks killed multiple U.S. service members, writing that every American death would be answered “many times” over.
The Pentagon said nearly 100 U.S. service members have been injured since July 7, although it added that 96% have already returned to duty, with most suffering minor concussions.
Despite the escalating conflict, diplomatic efforts remain active. Iranian officials said mediators had presented ceasefire proposals, while Pakistan has reportedly resumed discussions to reduce tensions, the report said.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock/ Below the Sky
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