Oil Prices Jump 5% as Trump Extends Iran Blockade Report

Oil prices surged over 5% on Wednesday, with Brent crude futures reaching $117.58 per barrel and U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures at $105.33 per barrel. The rise is attributed to reports that President Donald Trump plans to extend the U.S. Navy blockade of Iran. This blockade, alongside Iran's refusal to re-open the Strait of Hormuz until the blockade is lifted, has significant implications for oil exports from the Middle East. Despite the UAE's departure from OPEC, analysts at ING believe the main factor affecting prices remains developments in the Persian Gulf.