"Israel's Gaza ground offensive triggers oil market volatility"

Oil prices fell as markets remained steady following Israel's launch of a ground offensive in Gaza. Investors found relief in Israel's cautious approach, but anticipate a long and drawn-out conflict. West Texas Intermediate crude dropped 1% to $84.61 a barrel, while Brent crude fell 1.1% to $89.48 a barrel. The fear of a wider conflict disrupting global crude supplies remains, particularly if Iran becomes more directly involved. U.S. stock-index futures ticked higher, but concerns persist over the potential impact on oil markets.