US-Israeli air strikes on Iran, dubbed "Operation Epic Fury," have triggered a major escalation in Middle East tensions. Iranian forces retaliated by attacking energy infrastructure in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, causing oil prices to surge dramatically. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, has been threatened with closure.

This military confrontation comes amid growing economic uncertainty. Rising tensions compound existing concerns about the economic impact of artificial intelligence and the intensifying battle for rare earths. The conflict threatens vital food supplies and energy markets at a time when global economic stability is already fragile.

The Financial Times is hosting a live Ask an Expert Q&A session to address these challenges. Economics leader writer Tej Parikh and European economics commentator Martin Sandbu will discuss the economic implications of this Middle East escalation and other global disruptions. The text-based discussion runs from 2:30pm to 3:30pm GMT on Thursday, March 12.