Global energy markets are in turmoil as crude oil prices breached $100 per barrel following Israel's claims of neutralizing top Iranian nuclear scientists. The escalation has prompted Iran's new leadership to threaten the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could paralyze 20% of the world's oil supply.
Iran has officially named Mojtaba Khamenei, the hardline son of Ali Khamenei, as the country's new Supreme Leader following the reported death of his father. The transition, occurring amidst an expanding regional conflict with the U.S. and Israel, triggered a 20% surge in global oil prices as supply fears intensify.
Global oil benchmarks WTI and Brent surged approximately 20% in early Monday trade, reaching their highest levels since July 2022. The price spike follows a significant escalation in the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran and the naming of a hardline successor to the Iranian Supreme Leadership.