Markets are already feeling the impact from the tension between Israel and Iran

The conflict between Israel and Iran could cost U.S. farmers when it comes to ordering supplies. Fuel prices are already under pressure, and one economist says the markets have seen some rumbles recently.

“Most recently in the last week, we’ve had, as you know, an escalation of tensions and military conflict. Israel, looking to take out the nuclear capabilities of Iran before they, God forbid, had produced a nuclear weapon. We’ve seen markets gyrate right and left on those energy markets, and oil prices have been moving up,” said Ken Zuckerberg.

Fertilizer could come under pressure, too. Researchers at the University of Illinois say recent action in the Middle East has taken out fertilizer production in Iran. The concern is that it will add to growing uncertainty around Chinese and Russian supplies.

Related Stories
Agriculture remains a key drag on regional growth amid weak prices and policy uncertainty.
Tight cattle supplies favor poultry and pork while keeping beef margins under pressure.
While access to China remains uncertain, U.S. beef exporters are finding resilience and opportunity in other global markets, which could help maintain industry value and expand export opportunities.
ASFMRA’s Dennis Reyman discusses farmer sentiment, land values, and how global and financial pressures are shaping decision-making in the ag land market.
Gretchen Kuck of the National Corn Growers Association joined us to discuss the Ag Coalition for USMCA’s report findings and expectations ahead of the upcoming USMCA review.
Strong corn exports offer support, while soybeans and wheat remain weighed down by ample global supplies, according to the USDA’s latest WASDE report for February.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Wed, 2/18/26 – 7:30 PM ET
American Farmland Trust shares guidance, research, and policy solutions to help farmers navigate the growing threat of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” contaminating U.S. farmland.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, president of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss winter safety reminders and preparedness.
Richard Gupton of the Agricultural Retailers Association discusses the EPA’s new decision on over-the-top Dicamba and what it means for growers this year.