** Australian energy stocks .AXEJ rise as much as 2.2% to their highest level since July 22, 2024
** Energy sub-index set for a third consecutive session of gains, if current trends hold
** Oil prices rose as the widening U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran and threats to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz heightened fears of supply disruptions from the key Middle East producing region O/R
** Ampol ALD.AX and Viva Energy Group VEA.AX up as much 5.8% and 4.9%, respectively; among top movers on the sub-index
** Stock up 20.4% this year, including the day's move
(Reporting by Sherin Sunny in Bengaluru)
((Sherin.Sunny@thomsonreuters.com))