US military operations against targets in Iran have continued into a second day, intensifying fears of a broader regional conflict and threatening the stability of global energy supplies.
The sustained escalation marks a significant deterioration in the security environment of the Persian Gulf, a critical chokepoint for global oil transit.
Brent crude futures climbed sharply in response to the developing situation, reflecting immediate market concern over potential supply disruptions.
The price action underscores the premium investors are placing on geopolitical risk as diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis appear to have stalled.
WTI crude also posted gains, tracking the broader sentiment shift across energy markets.
The continuation of strikes raises the stakes for global trade routes, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles a substantial portion of the world's oil shipments.