Global oil markets continue to show growth amid a sharp escalation in the geopolitical situation around the Strait of Hormuz. Investors are closely monitoring developments as a deadline set by the United States for Iran to open a strategic sea corridor approaches. Tensions are increasing with tough rhetoric from US President Donald Trump, who has threatened large-scale strikes on Iranian infrastructure.

According to Reuters, oil prices rose significantly against the backdrop of these events. In particular, Brent crude futures rose by $1.74, or 1.6%, to $111.51 per barrel. At the same time, US West Texas Intermediate crude showed an even more significant increase - by $3.45, or 3.1%, to $115.86 per barrel.

The reason for this price jump was market concerns about the possible long-term blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important transport routes in the world. About 20% of global oil supplies traditionally pass through this narrow sea corridor, so any disruptions immediately affect world prices and supply stability.

The American leader issued an ultimatum to Tehran, stating that if the requirements are not met by Tuesday, the country will face serious consequences. Among the possible measures, he mentioned strikes on key infrastructure facilities, in particular bridges and power plants. US rhetoric indicates a readiness to escalate if diplomatic mechanisms do not yield results.

In response, Iran refused to accept the proposed conditions, which were transmitted through the mediation of Pakistan. Tehran insists on a complete end to the war as a prerequisite for any agreements and categorically rejects external pressure to open the strait. This position significantly complicates the possibility of a quick resolution of the conflict.

According to Priyanka Sachdeva, senior market analyst at Phillip Nova, the situation in the market remains extremely tense. She emphasized that the risk of full-scale hostilities is no longer hypothetical, as attacks on energy and shipping infrastructure continue. Even if the conflict ends quickly, the damage could have long-term consequences for oil supplies.

An additional factor of pressure on the market was the reduction in exports from a number of Persian Gulf countries. Restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have already led to a sharp drop in supply volumes, which further exacerbated the deficit in the global energy market.

The situation became more complicated after Iranian forces effectively blocked the strait in response to US and Israeli strikes launched on February 28. This became a key trigger for further price increases and increased volatility in global markets, which remain extremely sensitive to any signals of escalation.