U.S. military leadership has presented President Donald Trump with a range of offensive options against Iran, including targeted strikes on infrastructure and potential ground operations to secure the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic shift follows a report from Axios that Admiral Brad Cooper, the CENTCOM Commander, briefed the administration on plans designed to break the current diplomatic deadlock. The market reaction was immediate, with Brent crude hitting a four-year high of $126 per barrel before settling. While the energy sector remains volatile, Israel's economy is showing unexpected strength, buoyed by a 20% year-to-date surge in the Tel Aviv 35 index and high-profile tech exits. Meanwhile, the Pentagon has informed Congress that the war's cost has already reached $25 billion, as the administration approaches a Friday deadline to seek formal authorization for the conflict.

Topics Covered

• ⚡ Military Strategy: CENTCOM briefs President Trump on powerful strikes and operations to secure Iranian uranium stockpiles.
• 📊 Energy Markets: Brent crude spikes to $126 per barrel as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens 20% of global oil and gas.
• 🌍 Regional Escalation: Renewed fighting between the IDF and Hezbollah in Lebanon leads to troop injuries and mass evacuation warnings.
• 💼 Economic Resilience: Israel's GDP is forecast to outperform G7 nations, supported by major tech deals like Google’s $32 billion Wiz acquisition.
• 🏛️ Legislative Deadlines: The White House faces a Friday War Powers Resolution deadline to obtain congressional approval for the Iran war.

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