Oil price hits highest since 2022 after report Trump to be briefed on new Iran options
Crude oil prices have surged past $125 per barrel, reaching their highest level since 2022, as tensions escalate in the Middle East. Axios reported that US Central Command has prepared military plans for strikes on Iran, which will be briefed to President Trump, rattling global energy markets.

Oil prices have surged to levels not seen since 2022 as geopolitical tension escalates in the Middle East. The report that the US Central Command is preparing military options against Iran has spooked energy markets globally. For import-dependent economies like Turkey, higher crude prices increase inflationary pressure significantly.
Energy-intensive sectors, particularly transport and manufacturing, are already feeling the pinch of rising fuel costs. Brent crude trading above $125 per barrel could directly feed into consumer prices across Turkey's economy. The Central Bank may need to maintain its hawkish stance to protect inflation targets, complicating the path toward the 25% inflation goal.
Given Turkey's reliance on energy imports, surging crude prices pose risks to the current account deficit and foreign exchange reserves. The government is monitoring the situation closely and preparing contingency measures if prices remain elevated.
More from Turkey

Gulf economies face long-term hit from Iran conflict
Commentators warn that the Iran war will cause long-term damage to Gulf economies requiring years or decades to repair. The conflict has driven up energy prices and hit tourism and investment in the region.

CBRT April Inflation Assessment: Annual inflation rises to 32.37 percent
The Turkish Central Bank released its April inflation assessment, showing consumer prices rose 4.18 percent month-on-month, while annual inflation climbed to 32.37 percent—up 1.50 percentage points. Energy prices surged 14.4 percent, with the underlying trend moving higher.

UK borrowing lowest for three years but Iran war clouds outlook
UK government borrowing fell to a three-year low, but analysts warn the fiscal improvement is unlikely to last as the impact of the Iran war on government finances has yet to fully materialise.