KATHMANDU: International crude oil prices surged by more than 5 percent after rising tensions in the Middle East, as conflict involving Iran intensified following joint US and Israeli action. Market reaction on Monday pushed West Texas Intermediate up by over 5 percent, while Brent crude climbed about 6 percent, according to international reports.

Analysts attribute the spike to fears that war and geopolitical instability could disrupt global supply chains, particularly after reported obstructions in maritime shipping routes. Concerns over supply shocks triggered strong buying in energy markets.

The sharp rise has renewed inflation worries worldwide. Historically, steep increases in energy costs have led to broader price hikes, as wars tend to strain supply systems. In several countries, oil prices had already been edging higher due to precautionary stockpiling before the conflict began.

However, some international economists suggest the surge may prove temporary, depending on how long the geopolitical tensions persist and whether supply routes stabilize in the coming days.