According to Reuters, the price of Brent crude oil has increased by approximately 7%, reaching over $82 per barrel — the highest level in the past year, while American WTI rose to $75. These changes occurred after attacks by the U.S. and Israel on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory actions, raising concerns about potential supply disruptions and issues in maritime routes. Additionally, Bloomberg also reports a sharp rise in oil prices due to geopolitical risks and threats of supply restrictions from the Persian Gulf, through which about 20% of the world's oil volume passes. Experts predict that if the conflict escalates further, prices may continue to rise.
The main reason for the price spike is considered to be the risk of blocking the Strait of Hormuz, attacks on tankers, and possible reductions in oil exports from the region.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the key nodes for global energy, where a significant portion of global oil and gas supplies passes daily. Threats to its operation traditionally cause sharp price changes in international markets.
In addition, over the past day, there has been an increase in gold prices — a traditional safe-haven asset amid geopolitical instability. According to Reuters, the spot price of gold has risen by about 1-2%, reaching around $5,350 per ounce, which is the highest level in more than a month. This increase is attributed to heightened investor interest in safe assets amid the escalation of conflict in the region.
