Trump Returns on Old AF1 Instead of Qatari Jet | Balance of Power 07/08/2026

Summary

This episode covers the second night of US airstrikes on Iran, President Trump's NATO summit announcements including a Patriot missile license for Ukraine, and the Maine Senate race controversy. Markets reacted with oil briefly above $80 per barrel, equity indexes mixed, and bond yields higher.

• US launches second consecutive night of strikes on Iran, targeting assets near the Strait of Hormuz
• President Trump declares the Iran ceasefire over and warns of worse retaliation if shipping is attacked again
• Trump announces plan to give Ukraine a license to manufacture Patriot interceptor missiles
• Oil prices spike, with Brent crude briefly above $80, before paring gains
• S&P 500 slips 0.3% while Nasdaq 100 gains 0.3% led by chipmakers
• Treasury yields rise slightly, with the 2-year yield at 4.21% and the 10-year at 4.57%
• Maine Democratic Party moves to replace Senate candidate Graham Platner after sexual assault allegations