A sudden halt to planned U.S. military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure fueled a broad market rally, with stocks surging and oil prices retreating. The shift in U.S. policy marked a pivotal moment in global risk sentiment.
- President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon to hold off on military strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure on March 23, 2026.
- U.S. stocks rallied following the announcement.
- The SPY ETF rose amid improved market sentiment.
- Crude oil prices declined, reflected in the CL=F contract.
- The VIX dropped, indicating reduced market volatility and fear.
- The shift marked a significant de-escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions with cross-asset market impact.
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