Asian Markets Rise Amid Iran Conflict and Oil Price Surge
Asian markets that were open for trading on Monday showed gains as investors closely monitored the ongoing conflict in Iran and the resulting surge in oil prices. Japan's Nikkei 225 index rose by 0.7% to 53,514.39, while South Korea's Kospi increased by 1.4% to 5,450.33. The trading in Australia, Hong Kong, and Shanghai was closed due to holidays. President Trump has issued a deadline to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil supplies, threatening significant action if the demand is not met. Despite the U.S. importing only a small fraction of its oil from the Persian Gulf, the global nature of oil pricing means that the conflict has widespread economic implications. Japan and South Korea are taking measures to secure alternative oil supply routes. 
