Middle East Tensions Push Oil Prices Up 5%: Brent Settles at $79.48

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven a sharp rise in global oil prices. Brent crude reached $79.44 in the previous session and surged an additional 4.56% intraday to settle at $79.48, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) traded at $74.78. The ABD-İran conflict escalated after U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed strikes on 140 Iranian military targets, including missile and drone sites, prompting Iran to threaten attacks on Gulf states via Hormuz Strait.

ABD-İran Clash Sends Shockwaves Through Energy Markets

■U.S. operations involved precision-guided munitions and drones targeting Iran's military infrastructure.

■Iran's retaliation threats against UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait heightened supply disruption risks.

■Energy sector stocks and commodity funds gained short-term momentum amid volatility.

■Shipping costs and import costs spiked for oil-dependent economies.

This geopolitical turbulence underscores the inverse correlation between stability and energy sector valuations. While near-term volatility favors tactical positioning in energy champions, long-term investors should prioritize companies with resilient dividend profiles and buyback programs amid uncertain macroeconomic conditions.