Oil prices moved higher on Friday as growing security concerns in the Gulf region increased fears of potential disruptions to global crude supplies.
Brent crude futures rose $1.05, or 1.25%, to $85.28 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained $1.03, or 1.3%, to reach $79.98 per barrel. The gains helped both benchmarks recover losses recorded during the previous trading session.
The latest increase adds to a strong week for oil markets. Both major crude benchmarks have gained nearly 12% over the past week. Brent is on track for its third consecutive weekly gain, while WTI is heading toward its second straight week of advances.
The main driver behind the rally is growing concern over the security situation in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
Investors fear that escalating military tensions in the region could disrupt the flow of crude oil through the strategic waterway, which handles a significant share of global energy exports. Any interruption to shipments could tighten supplies and push prices even higher.
Market anxiety has also increased following reports of continued and expanding U.S. military operations in the region. Traders are closely watching geopolitical developments, as any further escalation could have a direct impact on oil production, transportation, and global energy markets.
The recent surge in prices highlights how sensitive oil markets remain to geopolitical risks. Even without actual supply disruptions, concerns about potential threats to key shipping routes can quickly influence investor sentiment and drive prices higher.
For now, energy markets remain focused on developments in the Gulf region, with traders assessing whether tensions will continue to escalate or whether diplomatic efforts can help stabilize the situation and ease concerns over global oil supplies.
