Escalating Middle East crisis pushes gold to its lowest level in 2026

23 March 2026
GOLD ALSABAEK
Escalating Middle East crisis pushes gold to its lowest level in 2026

The crisis in the Middle East deepened as tensions between the United States and Iran escalated, leading to a surge in safe-haven flows across global financial markets at the start of the week, amid a lack of significant economic data.


In the markets, gold continued its sharp losses, falling below $4,200 an ounce, its lowest level since December, after losing about 10% last week, with a further decline of nearly 7% during today's trading.


In contrast, oil prices rose significantly, approaching $100 a barrel, fueled by concerns about supply disruptions in the region.


The US dollar also benefited from safe-haven flows, with its index rising to around 99.80 points, while stock markets came under clear pressure as major indices declined.


📌 Summary

Global markets are experiencing heightened tension as the crisis in the Middle East escalates, with oil prices and the dollar rising as safe havens, while gold is under strong pressure and hitting its lowest level this year amid inflation fears and tighter monetary policy.