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Brent crude tops $105 as Trump weighs resuming 'major combat operations' in Iran
Euronews.com • • nation
Key Points:
- Global oil prices surged about 5% amid concerns over a potential new US military offensive against Iran, with Brent crude rising above $105.2 per barrel and WTI reaching around $92.75.
- Reports indicated the Pentagon has directed US Central Command to prepare for possible major combat operations targeting Iranian energy, infrastructure, and nuclear sites, though no strike date has been set.
- Rising oil prices fueled inflation fears, causing European stock markets to open lower and pushing government bond yields to multi-year highs, while the US Federal Reserve signaled another rate hike likely before year-end.
- Asian markets also declined, with tech shares retreating ahead of earnings season despite strong profit forecasts from companies like Samsung, reflecting cautious investor sentiment amid high valuations and AI spending concerns.
- Currency markets showed the euro near a 17-month low due to worries over France's debt, while investors awaited the European Central Bank's policy meeting minutes for indications on future interest rate moves.
