Khaberni - Oil prices have risen for the third consecutive day on Thursday with escalating fears that the United States may launch a military attack on Iran, one of the biggest oil producers in the Middle East, which could disrupt supplies from the region.
By 02:16 GMT, Brent crude futures had climbed 50 cents, or 0.73%, to reach $68.9 a barrel. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude rose 58 cents, or 0.92%, to $63.79 a barrel.
Both crudes have risen nearly 5% since January 26, reaching their highest level since September 29.
Prices are rising as U.S. President Donald Trump increases pressure on Iran to end its nuclear program by threatening military strikes and with American warships arriving in the region. Iran is the fourth-largest producer in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) with an output of 3.2 million barrels per day.
