A disruption in oil and gas shipments from West Asia looks improbable at this point of hostility between Israel and Iran, but it could lead to inflationary pressure as speculators play on risk premia to keep prices on the boil. Benchmark Brent had surged past $90 per barrel in the wake of Iran’s April 13 missile attack on Israel but soon slipped to $87. On Friday, Brent declined further to $86.4 after Tehran played down reported Israeli attacks on Isfahan, raising hope against escalation of hostilities in the region.

More maritime carriers are avoiding the Red Sea due to attacks on vessels. Oil prices rose as tensions persisted in the Middle East following Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea.