Oil Surges on Fears of Hormuz Disruption Amid U.S.-Iran Clash

Oil prices jumped as fears of a supply disruption from the U.S.-Iran clash mount, with tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz effectively paused. WTI traded around $72.57/bbl and Brent near $79.41/bbl after reports of potential long-lasting disruption to roughly a third of global seaborne crude exports. Analysts warned prices could spike further if Hormuz traffic remains halted, with scenarios suggesting Brent could reach $100+ per barrel. Trump signaled ongoing operations with potential for de-escalation talks, but markets remain wary of sustained disruption.