Brent crude hits $117.42 as Houthi and Iran risks spike

Brent crude oil hit $117.42 per barrel on Friday, October 23, its highest level since April. The spike follows fresh Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and growing fears in Washington over potential military strikes against Iran.

Geopolitical Triggers for Oil Surge

Escalating Middle East violence drove the price increase. Iran-backed Houthi forces launched new attacks on Saudi Arabia, forcing Saudi Aramco to evacuate its headquarters. Meanwhile, an oil spill near the United Arab Emirates raised alarms over regional shipping security.

Reports indicate the United States and Israel have prepared plans for renewed strikes against Iran, potentially targeting energy infrastructure. These plans are reportedly for consideration after the November 3 midterm elections. The White House stated no attack will occur before the vote, though planning does not guarantee strikes will follow.

The Kobeissi Letter noted Brent crude surged above $117 per barrel for the first time since March 19. The firm added that oil is now $2 from its yearly high and inflation expectations are climbing.

Market Reaction and Crypto Volatility

Markets reacted sharply. On Thursday, the Nasdaq plunged 2.6% and the S&P 500 lost 1.2%. While AI spending concerns triggered much of the tech selloff, rising oil prices added pressure.

Bitcoin slid toward $81,400 as crypto liquidations approached $441 million. Higher energy costs push inflation up, potentially forcing the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates restrictive. This environment threatens corporate earnings and weakens the appeal of speculative assets like Bitcoin.

Friday’s reaction was mixed; the Nasdaq recovered slightly while the Dow declined. This divergence reflects the tension between geopolitical risk, inflation, and technology sector dynamics.

Midterm Election Context

MSCI data shows US stocks gained an average of 12% in the six months following the last 13 midterm elections. However, the primary uncertainty may arrive after the polls close.

Renewed strikes against Iran could push oil beyond $120 and toward its yearly peak, risking another inflation-driven selloff. Conversely, de-escalation could ease prices and support a recovery. For now, stocks and crypto may depend more on Middle East developments than the congressional election outcome.