Oil prices climbed in the early Asian session as fears of a Middle East conflict grow.

President Trump is leaning toward expanding U.S. military operations in Iran after briefings from top aides, U.S. officials said. “Trump pledged to intensify the bombardment of Iran until it stops attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz and agrees to a reopening,” ANZ Research analysts note.

The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway through which one-fifth of the world’s oil is transported. Front‑month WTI crude futures are 0.8% higher at $80.24 a barrel.

These developments underscore the heightened risk of disruptions to global oil supplies, prompting traders to react cautiously.