June 13 - Defense stocks, including Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ:PLTR), climbed on Friday after Israel launched missile strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, missile facilities and senior military targets, stoking concerns of a broader Middle East clash.

PLTR is 3% up on Friday afternoon trading as the defense sector drew investor interest amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated further operations may follow as the country seeks to disrupt Iran's nuclear capabilities, while former President Trump urged Tehran to embrace a U.S.-brokered nuclear deal before it is too late.

The unfolding military and intelligence action raised the specter of all-out war and intensified regional volatility. Investors moved toward safety, monitoring developments that could weigh on global markets and risk appetite.

Oil futures surged about 13% on fears of supply disruptions, reflecting the heightened tension. Energy shares saw gains as traders assessed possible impacts on crude flows through key chokepoints.

Market participants noted that defense-related stocks may attract attention if governments boost spending amid rising security risks. Observers will watch statements from officials and any shifts in diplomatic efforts. The situation remains fluid, with investors bracing for updates on potential retaliation and wider geopolitical fallout.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.