Story perspectives
Global Markets Plunge as Middle East Energy Attacks Escalate
3/19/2026
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Story summary
- Global stock markets reel from escalating attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East, including Qatar and the UAE.
- Asian equities fell nearly 3%, led by Japan's Nikkei 225 and Korea's KOSPI, amid energy fears.
- Brent crude rose over 4% to exceed $112 per barrel, and the Standard & Poor's 500 (S&P 500) declined 1.4%.
- U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran against further attacks.
- Qatar's LNG facilities suffered significant damage.
