Will Brent crude oil surpass $82 per barrel amid escalating Middle East tensions?

Oil markets reacted sharply after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran intensified. Brent crude surged 9.3% to $79.40, reaching a 52-week high, while West Texas Intermediate climbed above $73. Donald Trump stated that the military operation would continue until objectives are achieved, increasing fears of prolonged instability. Given how sensitive oil markets are to supply risks in the Persian Gulf, even limited escalation could push prices a few dollars higher. However, absent direct disruption to exports or shipping routes, markets may stabilize below extreme levels. The uncertainty lies in whether geopolitical risk premiums will expand further in the coming weeks.