Global Instability Escalates Amid Middle East Conflict

A Martini Shaken Not Stirred and a Region on Fire

The world is not enough or so it seems especially when half of it decides to spontaneously combust. As I sit here nursing a Martini – naturally shaken not stirred – the situation in the Middle East is heating up faster than a laser beam pointed at Blofeld's cat. Forget diamonds; conflict is forever these days. The so called "civilized" world watches as Tehran takes a pounding and the usual suspects are pointing fingers faster than I can disarm a nuclear warhead. It's all rather tiresome even for a seasoned agent like myself.

Tehran Under Siege: A Spectre is Haunting

Images coming out of Tehran are less than ideal. Buildings reduced to rubble a grim reminder that some problems can’t be solved with a Walther PPK. It appears someone decided to introduce Iran to the concept of "shock and awe" with predictably explosive results. Iran naturally isn't taking it lying down. Missiles are flying drones are buzzing around like angry hornets and everyone's favorite pastime – blaming each other – is in full swing. Speaking of flying perhaps it's a good time to read Oil Tanker Costs Skyrocket as Middle East Conflict Intensifies given the circumstances. The prices are soaring and it's likely due to recent events. What a time to be alive.

Retaliation is a Dish Best Served Explosively

Iran's response has been as subtle as a rhino in a china shop. Missiles aimed at Israel drones swarming U.S. allies – it's a veritable fireworks display albeit one with decidedly less festive intentions. Reports of explosions in Qatar and Bahrain suggest the party is spreading. Even Azerbaijan usually just minding its own business of pumping oil claims to have been targeted. It’s like watching a global game of dominoes except instead of plastic rectangles we're dealing with geopolitical stability. A rather messy affair even by my standards.

U.S. Involvement: License to…Intervene?

Ah America. Always ready to jump into the fray like a bull in a... well you get the idea. President Trump bless his heart is throwing around timelines like they're going out of style. Four to five weeks? Possibly longer? It sounds less like a military strategy and more like a reality TV show pitch. One thing is clear a prolonged US intervention could have significant international implications further destabilizing the region and potentially drawing in other global powers. It seems some people never learn from the past but those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it or so they say.

The Price of Oil: Skyfall is Incoming

As if the explosions and political maneuvering weren't enough the economic implications are starting to rear their ugly head. An attack on a U.S. tanker in the Persian Gulf is hardly going to calm the markets. Expect oil prices to skyrocket faster than a space shuttle. The world's economy hangs in the balance and I wouldn't be surprised if gold becomes the new black. Financial stability is a precarious thing and in times like these it's as delicate as a souffle. One wrong move and the whole thing collapses.

Another Day Another Doomsday: Time for a Stiff Drink

So here we are staring into the abyss. The Middle East is teetering on the brink global powers are flexing their muscles and the price of gasoline is about to make your eyes water. It's all rather depressing isn't it? Perhaps it's time for another Martini. After all if the world is going to end one might as well do it with a bit of style. And remember gentlemen the name is Bond James Bond. And I always have a plan.