Shafaqna English– Crude oil prices registered modest gains during Wednesday’s(19 Aug 2026) early trading session, marking the fourth consecutive day of advances. The persistent upward movement is largely attributed to growing supply-side uncertainties, as market participants continue to digest contradictory statements emanating from Tehran and Washington regarding the operational status of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments.
At precisely 0004 GMT, Brent crude futures were quoted at $91.28 per barrel, up 26 cents or 0.29% on the day. In tandem, the more U.S.-centric WTI crude futures climbed 37 cents to settle at $85.31 per barrel, maintaining its premium-like performance relative to Brent. The gains, though modest, underscore the market’s acute sensitivity to any developments concerning the Strait of Hormuz, given its outsized role in global energy logistics.
Source: Reuters