War in the Middle East

"We're in a world where markets and investors are increasingly uncertain about where their money is safe," said Julia Coronado of MarcoPolicy Perspectives.

While the conflict could raise prices at the pump for American consumers, China will feel the biggest disruption to its energy market.

Around 20% of the world's oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Iran. Oil prices are higher today because of how a potential U.S. intervention could limit oil supply.

From the BBC World Service: Protests in the country began with demonstrations from shopkeepers over the plummeting value of Iranian currency.

From the BBC World Service: Iranian authorities say at least seven people were killed in protests on Thursday, the fifth day of demonstrations against the government's economic policies.

From the BBC World Service: Annual inflation in Iran is running at over 40%, and the nation's currency has rapidly devalued.