U.S. stock futures fall as Iran attacks Israel; South Korea's Kospi plunges 7%: Live updates

Iran launched a series of strikes against Israel, escalating Middle East tensions and triggering a global market selloff. U.S. stock futures fell, with South Korea's Kospi plunging 7%, while oil prices surged more than $2 per barrel on supply disruption concerns. The attacks, which also included strikes on Lebanon, threatened a fragile cease-fire and rattled investor sentiment worldwide. Asian markets led the decline, and European futures pointed lower as traders sought safe havens. The escalation follows a period of heightened regional instability, and analysts warn of further volatility if the conflict expands. The New York Times reported oil surging and Asian stocks sinking, while CNBC noted the Kospi's sharp drop and the impact on U.S. futures.

Global Impact

The strikes heighten geopolitical instability in the Middle East, with immediate economic consequences for oil-dependent economies and global supply chains. Politically, the attacks could draw in regional powers and strain international diplomatic efforts.