Iran-Israel War: Energy Crisis Soars; CIA Arms Kurds; Spain Isolated; Gaza Flooded

The ongoing Iran-Israel war is causing significant global disruption, particularly in energy markets, with benchmark Brent crude futures up about 50% since the conflict started. The conflict has effectively closed sea lanes for Middle East energy exports, leading to soaring energy prices and a shift in central bank policies. The US Federal Reserve is now the only major central bank not expected to hike rates this year, while others signal hawkish shifts in response to energy-driven inflation. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with heavy rains flooding displacement camps and reports of excessive force used against medical personnel. ## Latest Update Netanyahu wants oil and gas to flow through Israel post-Iran war, stating that Iran can no longer enrich uranium. He also addressed the relationship with Donald Trump, stating he didn't push the US into war. Iran is retaliating on Gulf energy sites. ## Timeline * 2026-02-24: Heavy rains flood Gaza tents as Israel kills two more Palestinians. * 2026-02-24: Report indicates Israeli forces fired over 900 bullets to kill Gaza medics in 2025. * 2026-03-04: Spain refuses to participate in a potential US-led military conflict with Iran, leading to diplomatic tension. * 2026-03-05: Canada PM says unable to rule out military role in Iran war, but criticizes US and Israeli operations. * 2026-03-05: Reports surface of AI use in US-Israeli attacks on Iran, sparking discussion about AI military applications. * 2026-03-05: Report indicates the CIA is planning to arm Kurdish militants to cause unrest in Iran. * 2026-03-05: Iran ramps up attacks on Kurdish forces to try to stop ground offensive. * 2026-03-06: Kurdistan says it is not part of campaign to expand war in region. * 2026-03-20: Netanyahu wants oil, gas to flow through Israel post-Iran war. * 2026-03-20: Dollar toppled as oil shock turns central banks hawkish. * 2026-03-20: Gold and silver prices are under pressure as oil prices stay high amid US-Iran war. ## What to Watch * Escalation of attacks on energy infrastructure, potentially leading to further supply disruptions and economic instability. * Increased tensions between Iran and Kurdish forces, with potential for broader regional conflict. * Humanitarian situation in Gaza, with continued displacement and limited access to resources.