• Former President Trump signals imminent strikes on Iranian critical infrastructure, including power plants and bridges.
  • Potential escalation in the U.S. maximum-pressure campaign, targeting energy and transportation capacity.
  • Global markets brace for volatility as oil prices and geopolitical risk premia rise.

President Donald Trump stated in a Fox News interview that he is nearing an order for new U.S. military strikes against Iranian power plants and bridges, marking a sharp escalation in the administration's pressure campaign against Tehran. People familiar with the matter said the planned attacks aim to degrade Iran's energy and logistics networks, delivering a strategic blow that could cripple its economic resilience.

"We're very close to making a decision," Trump said, without specifying a timeline. The White House and Pentagon declined to comment on operational details. However, officials acknowledged that preparations are underway, including target selection and authorization protocols, according to a defense official who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The news sent shockwaves through financial markets. Brent crude surged over 3% in early trading, crossing $80 per barrel, while safe-haven assets like gold gained as investors priced in increased regional instability. Shipping stocks and insurance rates for transit through the Strait of Hormuz also moved higher.

Analysts warned that attacking critical infrastructure could provoke retaliation from Iran, potentially targeting U.S. allies or regional energy facilities. "This is a significant step beyond previous strikes," said a former senior State Department official. "The risk of miscalculation is high."

International reaction was swift. European allies urged restraint, while Gulf states expressed concern about potential spillover. Diplomatic channels remain active, with the United Nations calling for de-escalation. Iran's mission to the UN warned that any attack would be met with "immediate and decisive" action.

For now, the path hinges on final approval. Without a clear signal, the situation remains fluid. Traders are watching for any official confirmation or market-moving headlines. We'll update this story as it develops.

Correction: A previous version of this article misstated the timing of the interview. It aired on Tuesday, not Wednesday.