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Oil prices surged late Sunday as fears mounted that the escalating Iran conflict could drag on for weeks, rattling global energy markets.

Global benchmark Brent crude briefly jumped to $82.37 a barrel — its highest level since January 2025 — in the first wave of trading following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to Reuters.

By 7:54 p.m. ET, Brent had pulled back slightly but was still up more than 7% at $78.24 a barrel.

U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude also surged nearly 7%, climbing to $71.68 after briefly hitting $75.33 — its highest since June of last year.

OIL MARKETS ON EDGE AS IRAN MOVES TO RESTRICT VITAL STRAIT OF HORMUZ SHIPPING LANE, REPORT SAYS

Smoke rises over the city center after the Israeli army launches airstrikes on Iran on Feb. 28, 2026. (Fatemeh Bahrami/Anadolu via Getty Images / Getty Images)

Analysts at Citi warned that prices could climb further if the conflict persists, projecting Brent could trade between $80 and $90 a barrel in the coming days.

Israel launched fresh strikes on Iran Sunday, with Tehran responding with new missile barrages, further escalating tensions in a region responsible for a significant share of the world’s oil production, Reuters reported.

MUSK POINTS TO HIGHEST ‘EVER’ USAGE OF X AMID US-ISRAEL STRIKES ON IRAN

An aerial view of Port of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, in the strait of Hormuz, Dec. 10, 2023.  (REUTERS/Stringer / Reuters)

Missiles on Sunday also struck several oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz — the world’s most critical oil export route — killing one crew member and raising alarms across global markets, Reuters reported.

As tensions mounted Sunday, more than 200 vessels — including oil and liquefied natural gas tankers — were anchored near the passage which carries roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply, according to Reuters.

‘IT’S CALLED A WHOOP’: CEO REJECTS SECURITY RISK CLAIM ABOUT SUSIE WILES

In this handout image provided by the Office of the Supreme Leader of Iran, Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei addresses the nation in a state television broadcast on June 18, 2025, in Tehran, Iran.  (Office of the Supreme Leader of Iran via Getty Images / Getty Images)

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Iran reportedly moved to restrict navigation along the Strait of Hormuz following the strikes.

Major exporters including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Iran depend heavily on the route.

Reuters contributed to this report.

In January, Thailand’s economy grew due to increased domestic and external demand, especially in tourism and private consumption. However, construction contracted, while inflation varied. Key issues include U.S. trade policy and tourism recovery.

Key Highlights 📊

• Overall Expansion: The Thai economy grew compared to December, supported by stronger domestic and external demand.
• External Demand:
  • Merchandise exports (excluding gold) increased, especially electronics.
  • Exports of gems, jewelry, and petroleum products rose temporarily due to firm-specific factors.
  • Tourism improved with higher foreign arrivals and receipts.
• Domestic Demand:
  • Private consumption and investment strengthened.
  • Vehicle sales surged, driven by accelerated purchases ahead of the EV 3.0 scheme deadline and extended registration.
• Government Spending: Expanded but slowed, mainly due to reduced capital expenditure after earlier front-loading.
• Supply-Side Conditions:
  • Services slightly contracted, mainly from a decline in construction activity.
  • Tourism and trade-related services continued to expand.
  • Manufacturing production remained broadly stable.
• Inflation & Stability
• Headline Inflation: Turned more negative, driven by lower raw food and energy prices.
• Core Inflation: Stayed positive and stable, reflecting higher vehicle prices (excise tax adjustments) but offset by promotional discounts in personal care.
• Current Account: Recorded a surplus, supported by net services, income, and transfers, despite a trade deficit from higher imports.

Thailand’s economy in January saw growth fueled by increased exports, particularly in electronics, gems, and jewelry, as well as improved tourism and domestic demand. Vehicle sales surged due to accelerated purchases before the EV 3.0 scheme’s expiration. However, government spending slowed due to previous capital expenditure front-loading, causing a decline in construction and a slight moderation in services, while manufacturing production remained stable.

Source : https://www.bot.or.th/en/news-and-media/news/news-20260227.html

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