Oil markets remain volatile as the Middle East conflict escalates, with Iran attacking key energy infrastructure. Brent crude fell to $108 on Friday after a turbulent trading session, while Saudi officials project prices could reach $180 if the war continues past next month. Consumers and businesses face mounting pressure as gasoline prices climbed to $3.91, nearly a dollar more than just a month ago.

The Pentagon's request for over $200 billion in additional war funding suggests military leaders anticipate a prolonged conflict. Iranian attacks on Qatar's LNG infrastructure have wiped out 17% of production capacity, with restoration expected to take up to five years. The Trump administration is considering releasing strategic oil reserves and potentially suspending some Iranian sanctions to ease price pressures.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright met with oil executives to discuss increasing supply, though companies remain cautious about committing resources until the conflict's duration becomes clearer. The administration faces the challenge of balancing immediate price relief with long-term geopolitical strategy as markets closely watch for stabilization measures.