New Delhi, March 1 -- Wall Street is preparing for a turbulent week ahead as the intensifying Middle East crisis dictates market sentiment. Geopolitical developments have moved to the forefront following the joint US-Israeli military strike against Iran, which resulted in the death of its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking officials.

The rapidly shifting landscape across the Gulf has fueled investor anxiety, boosting demand for safe-haven instruments such as gold and US Treasuries.

The energy sector is also under intense scrutiny following the strikes. Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, surged 10% to approximately $80 per barrel in over-the-counter trading on Sunday.

Analysts now suggest prices could pot...