War man Hegseth says US to strike Iran tonight as Tasnim warns of heavy response

The article reports escalating geopolitical risk after U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said CENTCOM would strike Iran hard tonight, targeting key facilities. Iran’s Tasnim news agency responded that its armed forces are fully prepared and would deliver heavy retaliation, including targeting new U.S. interests if attacked. The news raises the likelihood of a sharp risk-off move in markets, with oil expected to rise on fears of supply disruption through the Strait of Hormuz. Gold, the U.S. dollar, and the yen may attract safe-haven demand, while equities and other risk assets could weaken. Overall, the piece signals elevated volatility across energy, FX, and equity markets as traders await confirmation of strikes and Iran’s response.