Oil rises as US-Iran conflict clouds peace prospects

Published Updated

Oil prices have risen as markets assess the escalating conflict between the US and Iran and its potential impact on efforts to end the war and fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reports.

Brent crude futures are up 53 cents, or 0.68 per cent, to $78.55 a barrel as of 1148 GMT (4:38pm PKT). US West Texas Intermediate crude futures gain 39 cents, or 0.53pc, to $73.91 a barrel.

Opinion

Editorial

Gulf flare-up
Updated 09 Jul, 2026

Gulf flare-up

IS the fragile US-Iran ceasefire — and the memorandum of understanding that underpins it — collapsing? Unless...
Costly food
09 Jul, 2026

Costly food

THE recent decline in diesel and LPG prices should have brought some relief to consumers struggling with high food...
Unliveable city
09 Jul, 2026

Unliveable city

IT comes as no surprise. Karachi — Pakistan’s largest city, its financial engine and home to over 20m people —...
Hamas’s move
Updated 08 Jul, 2026

Hamas’s move

THE decision taken by Hamas to relinquish governance of Gaza appears to be designed to put the onus on the US and...
Terrorism threat
Updated 08 Jul, 2026

Terrorism threat

THE surge in terrorist violence in Balochistan highlights the renewed threat confronting Pakistan. The martyrdom of...
Football meddling
08 Jul, 2026

Football meddling

AFTER ending co-hosts America’s World Cup run in the last-16 stage, Belgium felt justice had been served. It was...