Oil prices climbed on Friday after fresh military exchanges between the United States and Iran raised fears over supply disruptions in the Gulf region. However, gains were limited as investors hoped diplomatic efforts could prevent a wider conflict and reopen shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
Brent crude ended the day at $101.29 per barrel, up 1.23 percent, while US West Texas Intermediate crude settled at $95.42 per barrel, gaining 0.64 percent. Despite the increase, both benchmarks recorded weekly losses of more than six percent.
Market analysts said traders remained uncertain about whether the situation was moving toward peace talks or another escalation in fighting. Investors closely watched developments after Washington and Tehran exchanged strikes in the Gulf and attacks were reported in the UAE.
US President Donald Trump insisted the ceasefire remained active but repeated demands for Iran to abandon its nuclear programme. Meanwhile, traders continued to react sharply to every new headline linked to the conflict.
Analysts said the future direction of oil prices would depend largely on whether a lasting agreement could be reached between the US and Iran, easing tensions and restoring confidence in global energy supplies.
The books by Republic Policy Think Tank, The Bureaucratic Coup, The books Fixing the Executive Branch of Government in Pakistan, Fixing the Legislative Branch of Government in Pakistan, and Fixing the Judicial Branch of Government in Pakistan are available at bookstores across Pakistan, particularly at Vanguard Books.
