The 17:00 report · 3.11.2026
Today we focus on the global market volatility surrounding the United States midterm elections and security tensions in the Gulf, alongside domestic political developments in Israel. As American voters head to the polls, the Middle East faces instability that is impacting both the economy and the security agenda.
US: Midterm Elections Polls Open
Polls opened this morning in the United States for the midterm elections, seen as a critical test for President Donald Trump’s administration after two years of public criticism regarding the cost of living. All 435 House seats and 35 Senate seats are up for election, with the economy and American involvement in Iran serving as central issues. Political tension is accompanied by a rise in election betting and market alertness, following President Trump’s efforts to rally Republican support and his sharp attacks on Democratic candidates. The importance of this process lies in the direct impact the composition of the next Congress will have on future economic policy and the international standing of the U.S.
Gulf Tensions: Reports of Tanker Explosions and U.S. Strikes
Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz peaked today with conflicting reports of security incidents in the region. Reports surfaced regarding explosions damaging oil tankers, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claims to have downed two American unmanned aerial vehicles in the area. Conversely, international media outlets have reported that the United States conducted an attack against Iranian targets on Qeshm Island. These developments coincide with a rise in oil prices and declines in global markets, though details regarding the identity of the tankers or the extent of the damage remain unverified.
Global markets await U.S. midterm election results
Global financial markets are showing high levels of alertness and uncertainty due to the combination of the U.S. midterm elections and the security escalation in the Persian Gulf. Declines were recorded in technology stocks, while oil prices have trended upward due to fears of shipping disruptions. This instability continues the mixed trends observed in Asian markets earlier in the day, as investors attempt to assess the long-term economic consequences of the U.S. election results and their potential impact on global energy prices.
Right-wing parties to recommend Netanyahu to form government
Right-wing parties in Israel, including Otzma Yehudit, Religious Zionism, and Shas, have confirmed they will recommend Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to President Isaac Herzog for the task of forming the next government. This follows an earlier announcement by Moshe Feiglin, chairman of the Zehut party, who also intends to support Netanyahu despite his criticism of the election process. Meanwhile, Religious Zionism has called on left-wing parties to end their boycotts and join a broad Jewish government, a position that stands in contrast to the ongoing political gridlock.
Shin Bet to provide security for Gadi Eisenkot
The Shin Bet’s Unit 730, responsible for the protection of senior officials, is set to take over security arrangements for former Chief of Staff and Yashar party chairman, Gadi Eizenkot, beginning tomorrow. This update follows a period of intense public and political pressure, including recent calls from survivors of the October 7 massacre for Eizenkot to avoid joining a coalition with Netanyahu. Additionally, opposition leaders recently met to discuss supporting Eizenkot for the premiership, though the path to a governing majority remains complex due to the requirement for support from Arab parties.
Written automatically from the Tevel reports linked in it.