Oil prices rise sharply, with Brent crude reaching more than $100 a barrel for the first time since May amid continued escalation of fighting in the Middle East. Multiple outlets report that Brent—used as a global benchmark—jumps by more than 5% on Thursday after several days of gains. The increase is linked to renewed concerns that conflict could disrupt the global flow of crude and tighten available cargo supplies. One report also ties the move to heightened U.S. military activity, stating that the U.S. steps up strikes against Iran as the broader conflict intensifies. Other coverage characterizes the situation more generally as ongoing fighting that threatens supply routes and production, contributing to the price spike. Overall, the sources agree the $100 level represents the highest point for Brent in the period since May and is driven primarily by market fears over energy security rather than changes in oil demand. No source provides additional long-term drivers or a specific timeline for how the situation may resolve.