Delta Air Lines (DAL) stock experienced a sharp 5.09% decline in pre-market trading on Friday, as escalating tensions in the Middle East sent shockwaves through the airline industry. The plummet comes in the wake of Israel's widescale strikes on Iran, which have raised fears of supply disruptions in the oil-rich region and driven crude prices up by more than 6%.

The sudden surge in oil prices is particularly concerning for airlines like Delta, as fuel costs represent a significant portion of their operating expenses. The conflict has prompted carriers to clear out airspace over Israel, Iran, Iraq, and Jordan, leading to flight diversions and cancellations. This disruption in air travel, coupled with the potential for prolonged geopolitical instability, has cast a shadow over the entire airline sector.

Delta Air Lines is not alone in facing this downturn. Other major U.S. carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, have also seen their stocks tumble in pre-market trading. The broader impact extends to the travel and leisure industry, with cruise operators and online travel agencies also experiencing declines. As the situation unfolds, investors are closely watching how these geopolitical events may affect fuel prices and travel demand in the coming weeks, potentially impacting Delta's financial performance and stock valuation.