Crude oil prices have stepped back from the $87-a-barrel peak reached earlier this week, as markets digest the latest escalation between the United States and Iran.
The pullback follows a sharp rally triggered by new US military strikes on Iranian targets on Wednesday, which briefly reignited fears of a prolonged supply disruption in the Persian Gulf.
Brent crude has softened from its session highs, reflecting a cooling of the immediate war premium that had propped up energy benchmarks.
Despite the retreat, prices remain elevated compared to pre-conflict levels, underscoring the persistent risk premium attached to Middle East shipping routes.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of global oil flows, remains a focal point for traders monitoring tanker movements and insurance rates.
Experts caution that the current lull in price momentum may be temporary.