Benchmark Brent crude oil futures rose past $100 a barrel on Wednesday, breaching the symbolic barrier for the first time since July 24 as intensifying conflict in the Middle East fuelled growing concern about oil flows from the region. Brent crude futures rose $2.15, or 2.2%, to $100.07 a barrel by 0721 GMT, while US West Texas Intermediate crude was up $1.70, or 1.83%, at $94.73 a barrel.

Brent crude moved closer to $100 as renewed U.S.-Iran tensions and threats to Gulf shipping raised fears of prolonged oil supply disruptions.

Brent crude for November delivery rose above US$100 a barrel on Wednesday for the first time since late July, in a session shaped by escalating attacks between the United States…