Trump-Iran tensions jolt oil market
Global oil prices jumped sharply after reports that US President Donald Trump rejected important proposals linked to Iran, triggering fresh uncertainty across international energy markets.
In a single trading session, crude prices climbed by nearly 4 percent as concerns over rising tensions in the Middle East unsettled investors. Growing fears of a possible military confrontation added pressure to already volatile markets, with traders closely watching political developments in the region.
According to international market reports, Brent Crude rose 3.8 percent to $105.20 per barrel. Meanwhile, West Texas Intermediate, the main US crude benchmark, climbed 4 percent to $99.30 per barrel.
Energy market analysts said oil prices have been rising steadily since regional tensions began. They estimate that Brent crude has gained nearly $20 per barrel during this period, underlining how sensitive global energy markets remain to geopolitical risk.
Economists warned that the latest price surge could create wider pressure on economies around the world, especially countries that rely heavily on imported oil. Higher crude prices often feed directly into transport costs, electricity generation and consumer inflation.
For developing economies including Pakistan, the latest jump has raised fears of another increase in petroleum product prices. Analysts say any prolonged instability could place additional pressure on household budgets, import bills and overall economic stability.
Investors have meanwhile adopted a cautious approach, with further volatility expected in the energy sector in the coming days.