Persistent conflict in the Middle East has driven international oil prices above $100 per barrel. Analysts at Barclays suggest that if the Middle Eastern conflict continues for several more weeks, Brent crude prices could test the $120 per barrel mark. Under an extreme scenario, assigned a 10% probability, Brent crude might reach $150 per barrel before the end of the month. Barclays noted that while these figures may appear high, especially considering the widespread pessimism about oil market prospects earlier this year, current fundamentals are stronger and risks are greater than during the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Since the outbreak of hostilities, the volume of crude oil loaded on tankers stranded in the Middle East Gulf has increased by approximately 85 million barrels, underscoring that upside risks to oil prices remain significant. Currently, crude oil exports from Iraq and Kuwait are already facing disruptions, with potential for the issue to spread to the United Arab Emirates and even Saudi Arabia. International oil prices have surged, approaching $120 per barrel. During Asian trading hours, NYMEX crude futures reached a high of $119.48 per barrel and were last quoted at $104.76, up $13.86 or 15.25%. Brent crude futures peaked at $119.50 and were last traded at $109.05, rising $16.36 or 17.65%.