S&P 500 Recovers Losses After Netanyahu Comments
The S&P 500 rebounded on Thursday, erasing earlier losses after remarks from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Iran’s military capabilities helped ease market concerns. At the same time, crude oil prices moved lower.
The benchmark index had dropped करीब 1% earlier in the session but later recovered to trade nearly flat following the comments.
Netanyahu Claims Iran’s Capabilities Weakened
Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu stated that Iran no longer has the capacity to enrich uranium or produce ballistic missiles after nearly 20 days of joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes.
“We are winning, and Iran is being decimated,” he said, adding that Iran’s missile and drone capabilities are being significantly degraded.
He also noted that ongoing strikes are targeting facilities involved in the production of missile components and nuclear-related materials, although no supporting evidence was provided for these claims.
Conflict Escalation and Regional Impact
The conflict began on February 28 after the U.S. and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran, following the breakdown of negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program.
In response, Iran has carried out missile attacks on Israel and parts of the Gulf region, while also restricting tanker movement through the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.
Uncertainty Over Political Outcome in Iran
Netanyahu said it remains unclear whether the Iranian population will move against its government, emphasizing that any such action would depend on the people themselves.
“It’s up to the Iranian people to decide when and how to act,” he stated.
Possibility of Broader Military Action
The Israeli leader suggested that a ground offensive could eventually be required alongside air operations, though he did not offer further details.
He also rejected claims that Israel had drawn the United States into the conflict, stating that decisions by Washington were made independently.
Oil Prices Fall as Markets Assess Situation
Crude oil prices declined following Netanyahu’s remarks, as investors reassessed the outlook for Middle East tensions and potential disruptions to global energy supply.
The pullback in oil prices contributed to improved sentiment in equity markets, helping the S&P 500 recover earlier losses.
