Oil prices rebound above US$106 as Houthi attacks revive supply fears

Oil prices surged above $106 a barrel on Thursday after Houthi missile attacks on Saudi Arabia reignited fears of potential supply disruptions in the Middle East. Brent crude futures rose 3.4% to settle at $106.60 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 2.7% to $94.61. Both benchmarks had risen nearly 5% at their session highs before easing as reports emerged of potential US-Iran discussions on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Saudi Arabia reported intercepting six ballistic missiles launched by Houthi militants targeting areas such as Taif and Yanbu, raising concerns over the security of Saudi oil infrastructure and export routes. This was the highest settlement for Brent since September 15. Although there was little indication of a diplomatic breakthrough, the possibility of a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz provided some relief to markets.

The US dollar remained strong, with the Dollar Index trading around 101.26, adding to inflationary pressure as US diesel prices reached record levels. Another Federal Reserve rate hike expectation further bolstered the US currency. Malaysia's ringgit was trading at approximately 4.0777 to the US dollar, according to Bank Negara Malaysia's reference rate.

The combination of higher oil prices and a weaker ringgit could increase pressure on Malaysia's import costs, although the impact on domestic fuel prices will depend on global refined-product prices, exchange rates, and the government's subsidy framework. Oil markets continue to watch the developments in the Middle East, particularly whether diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran can ease restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, as further attacks on Saudi infrastructure or shipping routes could reignite supply concerns.