Vital Energy, Inc. Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share (VTLE)

Crescent Energy Co. will acquire Vital Energy Inc. in a $3.1 billion all-stock merger, creating one of the top 10 independent US oil and gas producers.

Crude oil prices plummeted due to targeted Israeli airstrikes in Iran, but avoided oil infrastructure. U.S. energy stocks also saw sharp losses.

The sliding price of oil was a huge headwind for energy stocks.

Each of these three short-squeeze stocks to buy could have some positive surprises in store over the next few months.

Each of the following seven heavily-shorted stocks may have what it takes to become one of the next big short squeeze stocks.

Though short squeezes are never guaranteed, these three potential short squeeze stocks could provide generous returns if bought right.