The dollar’s sharp surge following U.S. strikes on Iran reinforced its status as a global safe-haven currency, as escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East pushed investors back toward the greenback’s traditional crisis-era role.

The renewed demand for defensive assets comes after months of growing doubts over the dollar’s ability to rally automatically during periods of stress. On Monday, the U.S. currency advanced broadly, with the dollar index climbing nearly 1% — its strongest daily gain in seven months.

USD/JPY remains above the 157 yen per dollar mark. However, the zone the pair has entered could act as resistance, with selling pressure potentially re-emerging in the 158.00–159.00 range. Still, the broader uptrend in the U.S. currency may open the door for a move beyond these levels.