Brent crude has surged to $125 per barrel due to escalating West Asia conflict and severe disruption at the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil chokepoint. Naval tensions and tanker blockades have restricted nearly one-fifth of global oil flows, intensifying supply fears and pushing shipping costs higher. Ceasefire talks remain fragile, while OPEC fragmentation and the UAE’s exit add further uncertainty. Major importers like India and China are diversifying supply, but sustained high prices are fueling global inflation risks, recession concerns, and economic instability. Outlook remains highly volatile, with prices potentially staying elevated without a lasting geopolitical resolution.