Oil prices rise after Trump issues new threats against Iran

TEHRAN, Iran — Oil prices climbed in afternoon trading on Wednesday after U.S. President Donald Trump issued fresh threats against Iran. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for July delivery rose 1.43 percent to $89.46 a barrel by 3:50 p.m. Moscow time, while August Brent crude gained 1.13 percent to $92.48 a barrel. Trump said he would order new strikes on Iranian energy facilities and bridges, citing what he described as slow progress in negotiations with Tehran. The remarks revived concerns over a possible military escalation in the Middle East, supporting buying in oil markets. The trajectory of nuclear talks between Iran and the United States has been a key factor shaping global energy prices in recent weeks. Traders are watching whether further U.S. sanctions or military action against Iran could tighten supply. The continued gains in both Brent and WTI point to further volatility in global energy markets in the near term.