Oil prices surge as Middle East tensions disrupt energy infrastructure

18 March 2026

Market comments on behalf of Maria Agustina Patti Financial Markets Strategist Consultant to Exness

Oil prices opened the week with another surge, before retreating to a certain extent. However, crude prices remained highly volatile and stabilized at their highest levels since 2022. Tensions in the Middle East continue to drive the rally amid disruption in shipping activity in the Strait of Hormuz. Simultaneously, many oil-producing countries in the Gulf are cutting oil output, with Iraq’s oil production plummeting by 70% in its main southern oilfields, while Kuwait has begun slashing output. Consequently, markets could increasingly see physical shortages.

However, coordinated efforts by G7 countries to release crude oil from reserves could reduce the risks of shortages and help curb the price spikes. The possibility of military escorts for oil tankers and plans for insurance coverage could also help limit the disruptions to shipping. While the prospect of government intervention has helped pull prices back from their peak, the market’s overall trajectory remains bullish as oil-producing countries could continue to reduce production levels in the face of restricted storage and export capacity.

 

Zaid Barem / ymm