Iran Issues Ultimatum on US Military Strikes, Sending Oil Prices Soaring
Oil prices surged on Thursday after Iran warned Gulf states that it could target regional energy infrastructure if they fail to persuade President Donald Trump to halt US military strikes.
The warning, delivered by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, as well as Pakistan's army chief, underscores the fragile balance between escalating regional threats and ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Brent crude, the international benchmark, rose more than 2% to trade above $81 a barrel during morning trading, while US benchmark West Texas Intermediate gained a similar percentage to trade above $76.50.
Despite public statements from both Washington and Tehran suggesting negotiations over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz were making progress, Iran's warning adds another layer of uncertainty for global energy markets.