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
Mold damage is tightening China’s corn supplies, supporting higher prices and creating potential demand for alternative feed grains in early 2026.
Tight Credit, Strong Yields Define Early December Agriculture
Cattle imports from Mexico remain stalled amid the New World screwworm outbreak. At the same time, Tyson closures add pressure on Nebraska producers and markets ahead of the USDA’s upcoming Cattle on Feed Report.
USTR Jamieson Greer signals a narrower trade deal with China, adding more market uncertainty. The Farm Bureau also supports reviewing China’s missed trade commitments under the Phase One.
Record yields and exceptionally low BCFM strengthen U.S. corn’s competitive position in global markets.
Credit stress is building for row-crop farms despite steady land values and slight price improvements.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Strong crush demand and rising ethanol production are pressuring feedstocks, as traders monitor storage risks and supply chain uncertainty and await the upcoming January WASDE report.
The U.S. Meat Export Federation plans to expand its global market presence in the New Year and says it is focusing its appeal on the growing middle class worldwide.
New World Screwworm cases in Mexico, including one within 200 miles of the U.S. border, are adding pressure to livestock markets and trade decisions.
Dr. Seth Meyer Concludes Service; Dr. Justin Benavidez Appointed USDA Chief Economist
USDA data indicates that 13.7 percent of U.S. households experienced food insecurity in 2024, the highest rate since 2014, even as most households remained food secure.
Weather, Tight Supplies, and Planning Shape Farm Decisions