U.S. military strikes on Iranian missile sites lifted Brent crude to $96 a barrel, signaling renewed tension in the Middle East. The attack followed Israel’s warning of a sharper campaign against Hezbollah, complicating any peace talks that would address Iran’s conflicts with the United States, Israel, and Hezbollah.

The jump in oil prices underscores concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow channel that transports up to 20% of global oil. Investors worry that heightened security risks could curb shipping flows and pressure supply chains, prompting a brief rally in energy‑linked stocks.

Gas prices slipped a cent, averaging $4.50 per gallon, while diesel dropped to $5.58, reflecting the lag between crude movements and consumer fuel costs. The market reaction shows traders reacting quickly to geopolitical shifts, with Asian and European indices mixed but largely muted.

Overall, the U.S. strikes have sharpened the risk premium on oil and prompted a reassessment of Middle Eastern supply stability, directly impacting global energy markets and corporate earnings forecasts.