Global oil prices moved higher as renewed hostilities in the Middle East intensified concerns over potential disruptions to energy supplies and key shipping routes. The latest gains come amid escalating military tensions between the United States and Iran, prompting investors to closely monitor developments in one of the world’s most important oil-producing regions.

Brent crude futures rose by nearly 1% to around $85.40–$85.70 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude climbed to approximately $80 per barrel. Market sentiment was driven by fears that continued military action and threats to strategic maritime routes could restrict global oil exports and tighten supplies.

Analysts say the renewed US naval blockade targeting Iranian ports and Tehran’s warnings of possible retaliation have heightened uncertainty in energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of the world’s crude oil passes, remains at the centre of concerns, with any disruption likely to have a substantial impact on global fuel prices and inflation.

Despite the price rally, some market experts caution that traders remain uncertain about how long the conflict will last and whether supply disruptions will worsen. However, if hostilities continue to escalate, oil prices could remain volatile in the coming weeks, affecting transportation costs, manufacturing, and economic growth worldwide.