SINGAPORE: Oil prices jumped on Thursday as Tehran declared the critical energy chokepoint, the Strait of Hormuz, closed after the US launched additional strikes against Iran and as President Donald Trump vowed even more attacks if no peace deal is secured.
Brent futures rose $1.48, or 1.59 percent, to $94.58 a barrel as of 05:43 a.m. Saudi time, while US West Texas Intermediate crude climbed $1.71, or 1.90 percent, to $91.74. US crude futures gained more than $3 earlier in the session.
Iran’s top joint military command announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, including oil tankers and commercial ships, saying any vessel attempting passage will be shot at.
“It once again suggests a deal is still some way off and that energy flows from the Persian Gulf will remain heavily constrained,” said ING analysts in a note to clients.
The renewed escalation in fighting prompted oil prices to rally in early morning trading, they said.
