Asian markets open shakily after US-Iran tensions escalate

Asian stock markets began the week with volatility on Monday as investors reacted to rising tensions between the US and Iran, according to a report by Swedish public broadcaster SVT.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to attack Iran’s energy infrastructure if the country does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz—a demand Iran has rejected. The standoff has heightened concerns over regional stability and global oil supplies.

Meanwhile, China has unveiled plans to accelerate its push in artificial intelligence as part of its latest five-year plan. The government aims to boost domestic consumption, reduce reliance on foreign markets, and strengthen its position in the global AI race, with a focus on developing humanoid robots.

In Russia, a fuel tank was struck in an attack on the port of Primorsk in the Leningrad region overnight, triggering a fire, local authorities reported. The governor confirmed the blaze but provided no further details on the extent of the damage or possible casualties.