US Dollar Index Holds Steady Amid Oil Price Drop and Middle East Tensions
The US Dollar Index held steady on Friday, despite a decline in oil prices and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Oil prices fell by 3% following an attack on two Saudi Arabian oil tankers by Iran-backed Houthi forces in the Red Sea. The assault threatens oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which could impact Saudi crude exports from the Yanbu hub.
US President Donald Trump vowed to hold Iran responsible for the maritime disruptions and hinted at a potential military response, stating it would be 'bigger than ever before'.