Trump Threatens Iran After Strikes on U.S. Bases

Donald Trump stated that Washington can attack Iran "anytime we want" after Iran claimed to conduct retaliatory strikes on U.S. bases in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates for two consecutive days. The escalation follows attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, which have pushed Brent crude prices to approximately $96 a barrel due to supply disruption fears.

Vice President JD Vance ruled out diplomatic talks with Tehran until the attacks on commercial shipping cease. Simultaneously, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that toppling the Iranian government is now a central Israeli objective and is "within reach."

While geopolitical tensions rise, Indian shares are expected to open higher on Friday. This market sentiment follows dovish comments from Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller, which reduced expectations for a U.S. rate increase this month and led to a weaker dollar and lower bond yields.