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U.S. stock markets showed resilience Thursday as the S&P 500 recovered from a 1% intraday decline to trade nearly flat, driven by remarks from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claiming significant damage to Iran's military infrastructure. Crude oil prices also dropped in response to the developments.
Speaking at a news conference, Netanyahu declared that 20 days of coordinated U.S.-Israeli airstrikes had severely degraded Iran's ability to enrich uranium and produce ballistic missiles. "We are winning, and Iran is being decimated," he stated, adding that Iran's missile and drone stockpiles are being systematically dismantled. He noted the strikes are focused on facilities linked to missile production and nuclear weapon components, though he stopped short of providing independent verification for his claims.
The ongoing conflict traces back to February 28, when the United States and Israel launched a joint aerial campaign against Iran following the breakdown of diplomatic negotiations over Tehran's nuclear ambitions. In retaliation, Iran has launched missile strikes against Israel and neighboring Gulf nations and has moved to restrict tanker movement through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about global oil supply chains.
Netanyahu left open the possibility of internal political upheaval in Iran, suggesting the decision rests with the Iranian people. He also confirmed that ground operations may eventually complement the air campaign, without elaborating on timelines or scope. Pushing back against criticism of U.S. involvement, he questioned whether anyone genuinely believes someone could direct President Trump's decisions.
Financial markets responded cautiously but positively to the news. Investors interpreted Netanyahu's comments as a potential signal of progress toward conflict resolution, easing fears of prolonged regional instability. Oil markets retreated as supply disruption risks appeared to lessen, reflecting broader market sensitivity to Middle East geopolitical developments and their ripple effects on global energy prices.
