Iran's Oil Shock: Crude Prices Surge 6% Amid Conflict

Fifty days into the U.S.-Israel war with Iran, tensions rose after Iran announced the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial traffic, briefly pushing crude prices down by over 10%. However, the closure was quickly reinstated due to ongoing hostilities, with West Texas Intermediate futures increasing by 6% to $89 per barrel and Brent rising 5.6% to $95.50. The fragile ceasefire is set to expire soon, with the U.S. Navy seizing an Iranian ship amidst clashes. The situation underscores significant uncertainty regarding oil supply and market stability for global crude prices.