Iran Escalates Ship Attacks in Hormuz as Oil Flows Rise; Ebola Reaches Kenya

Oil prices advanced as Iran ramped up attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, challenging shipments even as crude flows through the key waterway recover. Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline is operating normally, but the ongoing Iran war continues to drive billions of dollars in energy infrastructure costs. Meanwhile, Yemeni forces have launched a campaign to recapture territory, and economic pressure could push the US-Iran conflict toward a deal in 2027. Asian stocks edged lower as oil rose, while US Treasury yields also moved. The attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, have heightened concerns about supply disruptions and contributed to volatility in energy markets. Iran's increased aggression comes amid a complex geopolitical landscape, with multiple actors involved in the region. The situation is further complicated by the spread of Ebola to Kenya, where health authorities confirmed an imported case from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The patient traveled by road to Uganda and then by plane to Nairobi, marking Kenya's first imported case linked to the outbreak in central Africa. These dual crises—geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a public health emergency in East Africa—are weighing on market sentiment. Investors are monitoring both situations closely, as they have the potential to impact global energy supplies and regional stability. The program provides comprehensive coverage of these developments, offering analysis on the implications for oil prices, stocks, and bonds. Stay tuned for the latest updates on these unfolding stories.