Tensions in the Middle East are escalating as the Israeli army chief has ordered forces to prepare for a potential resumption of war with Iran. This directive comes after a complete breakdown of US-Iran ceasefire negotiations, which lasted 21 hours in Pakistan but ended without consensus. The talks, led by US Vice President J.D. Vance, faced major hurdles, particularly regarding the control of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime passage. Iranian officials maintained that any truce would require recognition of Iran's rights, leading to a stalemate. The failure of diplomacy has triggered immediate repercussions in global markets, with crude oil prices soaring due to fears of shortages and gold prices rising as investors seek safe havens. In India, the geopolitical crisis has resulted in a significant sell-off in equities, with Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) withdrawing ₹1.6 lakh crore (approximately $192 billion USD) since the conflict began. As military preparations intensify and diplomatic efforts falter, the international community braces for the potential humanitarian and economic fallout of a prolonged conflict.