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The broader geopolitical context is explosive. This marks the second major U.S. strike on an oil-producing nation in 2026 (following Venezuela operations), but Iran’s strategic position amplifies risks. Iran’s proxies—Houthis in Yemen, Hezbollah, and others—have threatened renewed attacks on shipping and Israel. Gulf states hosting U.S. bases face direct exposure. Diplomatic channels appear frozen; nuclear talks collapsed prior to the strikes.
