Shares of energy companies rose alongside oil futures.
U.S.-traded oil surged 4.6% to close at $65.19 a barrel, within 0.4% of its highest close this year.
Iran reportedly prepared for the worst-case scenario of a conflict with the U.S. Analysts warned Iran would likely close the Strait of Hormuz, a major chokepoint for oil supply routes, if war commenced.
On the other hand, analysts at brokerage Societe Generale warned, a diplomatic breakthrough in Iranian and Russia-Ukraine negotiations could release massive oil supplies that have been tied up by sanctions.
Write to Rob Curran at rob.curran@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
02-18-26 1744ET
