Crude futures rose midday Tuesday as continued U.S. strikes against Iranian targets and Iranian attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz reinforced concerns over disruptions to the key oil-shipping route.

Crude oil futures surge over 4% amid escalating US-Iran conflict and threats to the vital Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude futures climb to $79.11 while US WTI crude rises $2.95 to $74.36 a barrel.