New Delhi, March 10 -- The escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has emerged as a fresh concern for stock market investors across the globe, including in India. The intensifying tensions in the region have triggered a sharp rise in crude oil prices, creating significant pressure on the fiscal balance of major crude-importing nations.

The situation has become particularly sensitive due to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz - one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints - through which nearly 20% of global crude oil supply passes. Any threat to shipping routes in this region immediately raises fears of supply shortages, pushing oil and natural gas prices higher in international markets.

Higher fuel ...