Intuitive Machines Stock Surges Amid Geopolitical Tensions

Concerns over potential U.S.-Iran conflict and Russia-Ukraine war contribute to LUNR's rise

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Shares of Intuitive Machines Inc. (NASDAQ:LUNR) are surging on Wednesday, driven by rising geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran as well as the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The stock's technical setup shows mixed but cautious momentum, with the 50-day moving average crossing above the 200-day, indicating a potential long-term uptrend.

Why it matters

Intuitive Machines is a space technology company that develops lunar landers and other space exploration equipment. The company's stock performance is often tied to broader geopolitical events that can impact the space industry and government funding for space programs.

The details

The surge in Intuitive Machines' stock price is attributed to two key factors: the stalled peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Geneva, and the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The failure of the Ukraine-Russia negotiations and the planned joint naval drills between Iran and Russia have heightened concerns about potential military conflicts, which often drive investors towards aerospace and defense stocks like Intuitive Machines.

  • Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia wrapped up in Geneva on Wednesday without any progress.
  • Iran and Russia plan to hold joint naval drills in the Sea of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean on Thursday.
  • Political consultancy Eurasia Group sees a 65% chance of U.S. military strikes on Iran by the end of April.

The players

Intuitive Machines

An American space technology company that develops lunar landers and other space exploration equipment.

Volodymyr Zelenskiy

The President of Ukraine, who accused Moscow of dragging its feet on U.S.-mediated negotiations aimed at ending the four-year conflict.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has pressured Ukraine to accept a deal that could involve disappointing concessions.

Eurasia Group

A political consultancy that sees a 65% chance of U.S. military strikes on Iran by the end of April.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.