WTI Crude Surges to $111 as Middle East Conflict Paralyzes Strait of Hormuz

WTI crude oil prices have surged past $111 per barrel as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies, triggering widespread panic in global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively paralyzed for a second consecutive week, severely disrupting global supply chains and maritime security. Goldman Sachs has issued a stark warning regarding potential asymmetric threats, including the activation of IRGC cells across Latin America, Africa, and Europe. Beyond energy, concerns are mounting over the safety of undersea internet cables that facilitate 80% of the data traffic between Europe and Asia. Analysts suggest that these disruptions represent a major inflationary shock that could derail global economic growth and pressure equity markets. The combination of triple-digit oil prices and infrastructure risks has driven investors toward safe-haven assets like gold and the US dollar.